Work starts on the final phase of Birmingham residential scheme

WORK has begun on the final phase of Birmingham city centre’s largest residential regeneration scheme.

Representatives from Crest Nicholson, Birmingham City Council and Optima Community Association gathered at Park Central to mark the start of work.

It is 16 years since the first phase of work began on the site off Lee Bank Middleway.

The last phase will see the construction of the final 339 apartments, which will be housed in six buildings which have been designed by Glenn Howells Architects.

The final phase will also deliver a landscaped courtyard – designed by the city council’s Landscape Practice Group – that will include seating, open green space and planting.

Construction of the final phase is due to complete in 2019.

Chris Tinker, regeneration chairman at Crest Nicholson said: “Laying the first brick of the final phase is a huge milestone for Park Central. This has been a long-term regeneration project that has completely transformed an area of Birmingham’s city centre.

“After nearly two decades of hard work and dedicated partnerships, this is a chance for us to celebrate all that has been achieved as we embark on the final stages of construction.

“Park Central represents a truly collaborative approach between ourselves, Birmingham City Council and Optima Community Association and, thanks to the success of this partnership, when complete, the development will have delivered more than 1,500 desirable homes in the city centre.”

Park Central is already home to over 1,250 properties, including 1,000 apartments and 250 freehold houses, together with 285,000 sq ft of commercial space. Additionally, more than eight acres of parkland have been delivered.

John Clancy, Leader of Birmingham City Council said: “Before Park Central, this area of the city faced a number of social problems. Now, thanks to the partnership between Birmingham City Council, Crest Nicholson and Optima Community Association, it has been completely transformed. What we see before us today is a hugely successful and desirable place to live.

“Park Central is a great example of successful collaboration and demonstrates what can be achieved when the public and private sector works together in the interest of local residents and the wider city.”

Simon Kimberley, Executive Director at WM Housing Group, said: “I am delighted to see the final phase progressing as we near the completion of our journey to regenerate this community. With its distinctive design, coupled with excellent leisure facilities, Park Central is a development we can all justly be very proud of.”

The event was also attended members of the project team including Glenn Howells Architects, Savills, Aecom, Reuby & Stagg and Shakespeare Martineau.