£60m scheme approved to transform derelict Eastside site

Plans to transform a historic Birmingham factory into a £60m innovation centre for businesses, artists and academics have been approved by Birmingham City Council.

The 120-year-old derelict Belmont Works building is to be regenerated in the second phase of Birmingham City University’s STEAMhouse project.

STEAMhouse Phase One has already supported the creation of dozens of businesses since being launched in Digbeth last year by Birmingham City University and Eastside Projects.

Prof Julian Beer, deputy vice-chancellor at Birmingham City University, who has led the STEAMhouse initiative said: “This is a major step forwards, not just in providing a new home for STEAMhouse, but also in putting STEAM at the heart of our economy.

“While the region has long been recognised for its strength in industries like manufacturing, embedding the arts within this has a major role to play in underpinning growth in the years to come.”

Belmont Works was built in 1899 and served as the headquarters for the historic Eccles Rubber and Cycle Company but has stood derelict since being gutted by a fire in 2007.

Following approval, builders can now start preparatory work on restoring the structure.

The building will receive an extension to its rear façade to provide upgrades and new spaces, while retaining many of its original features.