Former city centre bank set to become new food outlet

A FORMER bank in Birmingham city centre is set to be converted into a new food outlet under plans submitted to the city council.

The former Lloyds Bank Business Centre in Newhall Street – part of Edmund House – is set to become an outlet for independent fast food chain Friska.

The outlet would be the second in the city for the Bristol-based company, which only opened its first shop at 11 Brindleyplace in February.

The company, which has its main base in the South West, said at the time that it wanted to expand its offering in Birmingham.

It has submitted change of use proposals that would see the former business centre refurbished, along with a new-look façade and double doors (see below).

Friska specialises in hearty breakfasts and lunches with an eclectic menu offering the likes of breakfast toasties, porridge, eggs on toast, sandwiches, salads, soups, Vietnamese pho noodles, Khobez wraps and more.

While Asha’s occupies the opposite corner of Edmund House, Friska’s offering is unlikely to pose a threat.

The new outlet could also capitalise on the redevelopment of the former NatWest Tower, which is just next door to the former Lloyds facility.