Hello Phil. Thank you for that information. Memory plays tricks - I always thought the properties were built in an L shape with our house forming the short arm. Also I thought the building was closer to the railway bridge.
It's a shame they were demolished and no doubt replaced by something of less architectural merit.
There are still in existence Mason's Cottages in Orphanage Road where an aunt of mine lived until her death a few years ago. It is a lovely 'gated' community with semi-detached properties ranged around a central Hall which provides food and entertainment for those who want it.
As you are not a native of Erdington this will probably not mean much to you, but someone else might have more information they are willing to pass on.
Incidentally, I was brought home from a Nursing Home to Mason's House, went to school in part of The Orphanage (where my father did wartime fire watching) and married a Mr Mason.
Many thanks once again.
Mary Jane