Demolition of three buildings
Demolition works will be taking place at the following buildings on the University of Birmingham’s Selly Oak campus:
- Prospect Hall
- 14 College Walk
- Elmfield House
The buildings are highlighted in red on the following map:

The work will begin at Prospect Hall, followed by 14 College Walk and finally, Elmfield House.
The University has appointed City Demolition to undertake the demolition works, in coordination with the University Estates team. The site has been secured in preparation for the demolition and all works will be carried out by City Demolition in full compliance with relevant regulations and recognised demolition codes of practice.
Friday 17 October – update on start of demolition work
Friday 17 October – update on start of demolition work
We wish to inform you that demolition works will begin on Friday 17 October, starting at Prospect Hall.
- Prospect Hall
- 14 College Walk
- Elmfield House
The work will begin at Prospect Hall, followed by 14 College Walk and finally, Elmfield House.
We have begun to share a letter with local neighbours and users of the site today. If you have any further questions, please email estatesbusinessadminteam@contacts.bham.ac.uk. If you are a parent or guardian at The Oaks, please speak with the nursery office staff, or email them at Enquiries@DayNurseries.bham.ac.uk.
Site Safety Measures
To ensure public safety, the site perimeter has been secured using the existing boundary fencing, supplemented by Heras fencing to clearly define the site limits and restrict unauthorised access. Information signs will be prominently displayed throughout the area where works will be taking place.
All construction vehicle movements occurring outside the demolition site boundary will be supervised by a qualified Banksman or Traffic Marshal. They will also assist members of the public to ensure safe and unobstructed access to designated footpaths and pedestrian routes during these operations.
Minimising Disruption
We understand that these works may cause some disruption, and we sincerely appreciate your patience. Every effort will be made to minimise noise and inconvenience throughout the process. On-site work will take place between 07:30 and 18:00. Where disturbances are unavoidable, we thank you for your understanding during this time.
Demolition of Prospect Hall and 14 College Walk is scheduled for completion by the end of January 2026. Further details regarding the demolition of Elmfield House will be shared in due course.
Important Safety Notice for Parents and Guardians
We kindly ask parents and guardians to speak with their children about the dangers of construction sites. Although these areas may appear fascinating, they are hazardous environments. It is important that children understand they must never attempt to enter the site under any circumstances.
Selly Oak Demolition FAQs
How will the buildings be demolished?
How will the buildings be demolished?
Excavators fitted with demolition attachments will be used.
Will there be noise during the demolition and will it be monitored?
Will there be noise during the demolition and will it be monitored?
Yes. All reasonable steps will be taken to minimise both noise and disruption. Where disturbances are unavoidable, we appreciate your patience and understanding during this period.
The noise will be monitored at regular intervals during the demolition and checked against guidance to ensure compliance.
What times will you be working?
What times will you be working?
Demolition hours are:
Monday to Friday - 08:00 to 17:00
Saturday - 08:00 to 13:00
Is the demolition process safe for nearby buildings?
Is the demolition process safe for nearby buildings?
Yes. Works are contained within the confines of the site boundary and waste collections are managed to avoid peak periods. There will there no impact on local utilities like water, electricity, or internet.
How will dust and debris be managed to protect air quality in the area?
How will dust and debris be managed to protect air quality in the area?
There will be regular air quality checks throughout the demolition phase. The control of dust will be managed and minimised at the source using dedicated water sprayers fed from hydrants local to the site.
The processes and works will adhere to strict guidelines, with specialist-trained operatives used as required.
Will there be road closures or changes to pedestrian access during the demolition?
Will there be road closures or changes to pedestrian access during the demolition?
During the delivery and removal of plant and equipment, a qualified Banksman or Traffic Marshal will be present. They will also be on hand to assist members of the public, ensuring safe access to designated footpaths and pedestrian routes during these periods.
What steps are being taken to ensure safety on site?
What steps are being taken to ensure safety on site?
To ensure public safety, the site perimeter has been secured using the existing boundary fencing and Heras fencing will be used to clearly mark out where works will take place. Information signs will be prominently displayed throughout the area where works will be taking place.
We kindly urge parents and guardians to speak with their children about the dangers associated with demolition sites. Although such areas may appear intriguing, they pose serious risks. For their safety, children must be kept well away from the site at all times.
Who do we contact if we have any queries?
Who do we contact if we have any queries?
If you are a parent or guardian at The Oaks Day Nursery, please speak with the office staff.
If you are a local resident, please contact: estatesbusinessadminteam@contacts.bham.ac.uk