Celebrating the history of City Hospital

November 7, 2024

As we draw closer to bidding farewell to City Hospital and moving into the Midland Met, it’s only fitting to take a moment to appreciate the rich history that has shaped this institution over the past 130 years. From its humble beginnings in 1887 to the cutting-edge medical facility it is today, City Hospital has been a pillar of healthcare in West Birmingham. 

In the late 19th century, the foundations of an infirmary for the Birmingham Union Workhouse were laid, and, in 1889, City Hospital officially opened its doors. Designed by W.H. Ward, the infirmary adopted the revolutionary principles championed by Florence Nightingale, emphasising the care of non-infectious sick individuals. A quarter-mile long corridor connected nine pavilions, with open-air bridges allowing air circulation – a progressive approach in its time. Even Queen Victoria recognised the significance of this institution, gifting two volumes of books to launch a hospital library. 

Over the years, City Hospital evolved with the times. X-ray facilities were introduced in 1912, and, by 1920, it became a District General Hospital, exclusively funded by the City Council. The hospital’s commitment to medical advancement continued with the introduction of obstetrics in 1922 and the inauguration of a deep X-ray department in 1925 by Mr. Neville Chamberlain, Minister of Health. 

During the tumultuous periods of World War I and World War II, City Hospital played a crucial role. It treated over 54,000 military personnel during the First World War and transformed its maternity block into a casualty clearing facility for war-related casualties in the Second World War. 

The post-war era marked the establishment of the National Health Service (NHS) on July 5, 1948, bringing City Hospital under the management of the Regional Hospital Board. The hospital flourished with milestones such as the opening of the first specialist diabetic clinic in 1950, the founding of Birmingham Hospital Radio in 1952, and the establishment of the Olga Snowden School of Nursing in 1959. 

The 1960s witnessed significant expansions, including the construction of the Sheldon Block of wards and the opening of a postgraduate centre for medical students. The 1970s and 1980s saw the introduction of new departments, such as pathology and child assessment units, and the development of specialised facilities like the Birmingham Eye Hospital. 

In the 21st century, City Hospital continued to modernise with the opening of the Birmingham Midland Eye Centre in 1996 and the Birmingham Treatment Centre in 2005 reflecting the Trust’s commitment to providing state-of-the-art healthcare. 

But City Hospital’s legacy won’t be forgotten. The site’s history will live on in the proposed ‘City Hospital West’ development. Homes England plans to transform the land we vacate into a vibrant community featuring up to 750 high-quality homes, retaining the iconic Infirmary Front Range building for conversion into apartments. The plans ensure the new community development integrates with the Trust’s retained estate, creating a harmonious balance between the new neighbourhood and ongoing healthcare uses.