Cofton Park prepares for the Pope

Parts of Birmingham's Cofton Park were closed today as construction work began in preparation for the visit of Pope Benedict XVI.

Access to the park will now be limited until the Papal Mass on September 29.

Building work today included the laying out of new pathways and next week will see the construction of the stage where the Pope will say Mass and areas for VIPs and singers.

A total of 10,000 letters have been distributed to residents around Cofton Park to inform them of the arrangements.

Sarah Kirby, spokeswoman for Birmingham City Council said: "The work is starting today around the car park area.

"Initial works will include laying out trackways and other site management.

"It will probably be next week that they will start work on the actual stage where the Pope will say Mass, along with areas for Bishops, VIPs and the choir.

"Workers will also be clearing space for the 65,000 pilgrims and creating and area for the Pope to give his blessing.

"The majority of the park will be open over the bank holiday, although more and more of the site will close as the date approaches.

"Most of the park will eventually close, although there will still be room for dog walkers around the outside."

A list of road closures around the park is expected to be announced next week, with further letters sent out to residents.

Cofton Park will open at 2am to the first of the 65,000 pilgrims flocking to see the Pope on September 19.

Controversial security measures, which have been branded 'draconian,' mean that all Pilgrims will have to use buses to get on to the site.

Rehearsals, including performances by the choir, will start at 6am and at 8.10am a morning worship is planned, which will be broadcast on BBC Radio 4.

The Mass to beatify Birmingham Cardinal John Henry Newman, will begin at 10am.

Birmingham City Council has set up an inquiry line for residents on 0121 675 1164.