Digbeth music venues face uncertain future under new rail plans

Some of Digbeth's best-known music and nightlife venues face an uncertain future as major rail plans take shape, prompting calls to protect the area's independent cultural scene.

Date published: 5th Aug 2026

Several of Digbeth's best-known music and nightlife venues could be under threat from major railway developments proposed for the area.

Plans forming part of the Midlands Rail Hub include new railway infrastructure between Bordesley and Birmingham Moor Street, designed to increase capacity and allow more trains to travel through the city. Network Rail says the wider project could eventually help deliver up to 300 additional services per day into or out of Birmingham. 

However, concerns are growing over what the developments could mean for Digbeth's independent businesses and cultural spaces, particularly those surrounding Lower Trinity Street.

Mama Roux's is among the venues to speak out, saying current proposals could result in the demolition of its home beneath the area's historic Victorian railway arches when construction begins. Club Colette, The Night Owl, Luna Springs and XOYO are among other nearby nightlife venues potentially affected by the plans.

The area has become an important part of Birmingham's nightlife and grassroots music scene. Mama Roux's has previously welcomed artists including Jorja Smith, Little Simz and PAWSA, while neighbouring The Night Owl has operated from Lower Trinity Street since 2015, establishing itself as a home for Northern Soul, Motown and other retro sounds. 

Mama Roux's has urged music fans and the local community to respond to the ongoing public consultation, arguing that future infrastructure shouldn't come at the expense of the independent venues and businesses that have helped shape Digbeth's cultural identity.

At this stage, the proposals are not final. The current consultation runs until Friday 28th August, with feedback set to inform more detailed plans and a second consultation expected in summer 2027. The Midlands Rail Hub Alliance currently expects to seek formal approval in 2028, with construction potentially beginning from 2030. 

Share your thoughts on the proposals and what the venues on Lower Trinity Street mean to you, by completing the Midlands Rail Hub Alliance consultation feedback form: 

mrhalliance.co.uk/feedback-form

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Header image credit: Mama Roux's / Facebook.com