30-storey tower plans for former fire station

PLANS to convert and restore the former Central Fire Station in Birmingham including building a 30-storey tower have been submitted to the city council.

The £50m scheme, designed by recently launched new architectural practice in the city K4, includes internal and external alterations to the station at Lancaster Circus on the edge of the city centre.

The mixed-use scheme will also comprise 826 bed spaces for student accommodation, a range of different commercial uses, landscaping and parking.

K4’s design statement said the project would comprise a range of en-suite, studio and flatshare accommodation, shops, food outlets and shared recreation facilities group around a central ‘drill yard’ space.

Shops in Aston Street would be retained and refurbished and new commercial space would be added, it said.

Public comments on the proposal can be submitted until July 14.