Petition launched to rename Birmingham Airport after Ozzy Osbourne
A petition has been launched to rename Birmingham International Airport after the late Black Sabbath frontman Ozzy Osbourne, who died on July 22nd at the age of 76.
Osbourne’s immediate family confirmed the news of his passing on social media. A statement, signed by his wife Sharon and four children, reads: “It is with more sadness than mere words can convey that we have to report that our beloved Ozzy Osbourne has passed away this morning. He was with his family and surrounded by love.”
Additionally, Osbourne’s sisters have since spoken to the Mirror and described his passing as a “shock” before revealing he died in England, sharing, “He still had plans and things he wanted to do. We don’t know the details of his death, it’s still too early. It’s just so sad. I’m just thankful he died in England.”
They have also been touched by the public reaction to his death, stating, “To us he was our brother, not a celebrity, so it’s crazy to see the outpouring of love since his death was announced.”
Since his death was announced, Birmingham has become home to a shrine to Osbourne, with fans flocking to Black Sabbath Bridge on Broad Street to leave flowers and pay tribute. Additionally, Birmingham City Council has created a book of condolence, which fans can sign in the Round Room at the Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery until 7pm on July 23rd.
Now, a petition has been launched to rename the city’s airport after its most famous son. As of writing, the Change.org petition, which was started by a fan named Dan Hudson, has more than 260 signatures in a matter of hours.
The petition describes him as “the most important musician ever to hail from Birmingham” and says that “naming our international airport after him would be a fitting tribute to his extraordinary career and contributions to the arts”.
It also notes that other airports around the UK have been named after cultural figures, highlighting George Best International Airport in Belfast and John Lennon Airport in Liverpool.
In addition to the Black Sabbath Bridge, which was unveiled in 2019, Birmingham bestowed Black Sabbath with the freedom of the city in a ceremony last month. Furthermore, The Crown pub, where Black Sabbath honed their sound, has been given Grade II-listed status, which prevents it from being redeveloped due to its cultural heritage.
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