Blue Plaque honours Herbert Austin at Longbridge

Birmingham Civic Society has unveiled a Blue Plaque celebrating the life and legacy of Herbert Austin — pioneering engineer, visionary industrialist, and founder of the Austin Motor Company. The plaque now stands at the Longbridge campus of South & City College Birmingham, marking the very ground where Austin’s world‑famous car factory once operated.

Lord Herbert Austin built his first car in Birmingham in 1895 and went on to establish The Austin Motor Company in 1905. His factories became a cornerstone of Britain’s automotive industry and played a crucial role in supporting the nation during both world wars. A passionate advocate for apprenticeships and engineering training, Austin created pathways into skilled work for tens of thousands of young people — a legacy that continues to inspire.

The plaque was nominated and funded by the Austin Ex‑Apprentices Association (AEAA), which brings together former apprentices of the Austin Motor Company and its successor firms at Longbridge. The Association has long championed greater recognition for Herbert Austin’s contribution to engineering, industry and opportunity in Birmingham. Their commitment, together with the support of South & City College Birmingham, made it possible for the plaque to be installed at this historically significant site.