Birmingham marathon cancelled due to roadworks

The Birmingham International Marathon was due to be held on Sunday October 14, the same day as the city's half marathon.

But organisers have called the main event off, citing 'ongoing redevelopment and roadworks' at key areas in the city which have restricted the options for a new and improved marathon route.

Organisers say cancelling the event will give them time to redesign it in the lead up to the 2022 Commonwealth Games.

All entrants who have signed up for this year’s Birmingham International Marathon will automatically receive a full refund and be offered discounted entry into the Simplyhealth Great Birmingham Run half marathon.

Organisers, The Great Run Company, have been working with partners such as Birmingham City Council and emergency services to improve the 26.2-mile route after feedback from participants at last year’s inaugural event.

Paul Foster, Chief Executive Officer of The Great Run Company, said: “We apologise to those who have already entered the event. It’s a difficult, but sensible decision.

"Rather than compromise the event, it’s better to go back to the drawing board.

“Our ambition is to create an iconic marathon route showcasing the best of the city and we hope to be able to announce a new date and improved route later in the year.

“We have listened to the feedback from participants in the 2017 Birmingham International Marathon and feel that it is best to work with our partners in the city to improve the running experience, and create a marathon that Birmingham can be truly proud of in the build-up to 2022.”

Councillor Ian Ward, Leader of Birmingham City Council, added: “We could carry on with the route established last year, but it is much more important to look at this from a long-term perspective.

“We’ve proven we can stage a marathon in the city and that there is a clear desire from runners for such an event - but it is better that we take stock, wait for the completion of some of the infrastructure projects making this city an even greater place to be and then re-route the marathon so it showcases our ever-transforming city in the best light possible.

“I have every sympathy with those who were looking forward to running the marathon here again, and hope they take up the opportunity of entering the Simplyhealth Great Birmingham Run half marathon instead.”