Construction starts on £133m city centre residential scheme

Construction on a 504 bed build-to-rent scheme on the former site of Kent Street Baths in Birmingham has started, with work expected to complete in two phases in 2022 and 2023.

Located in Birmingham’s Gay Village, between Bromsgrove Street and Kent Street, the scheme, which is being developed by High Street Residential, will include a mix of studio, one, two and three-bedroom apartments across five buildings ranging from seven to 19 storeys.

There will also be an outdoor courtyard with a central three-storey community hub with 955 sq metres of flexible commercial space leading onto Bromsgrove Street with provision for retail, restaurant, leisure and office space.

Construction consultants MAC have been appointed to oversee the project, acting as employer agents and quantity surveyors at the site.

Gary Forrest, chairman of The High Street Group of Companies – which includes High Street Residential – said: “Almost 19% of the UK population is renting privately and this figure is expected to grow significantly.  In response, we are creating high quality living spaces, future proofed using the latest smart technologies.

“Our developments will support the huge regeneration initiative underway in the south of Birmingham, providing attractive homes for those working in modern jobs being created by a fast-developing hi-tech sector.”

David Beckett, associate director at MAC Construction Consultants commented: “This is an exciting and ambitious project that will provide much needed accommodation and amenities to Birmingham City Centre.

“We are delighted to have been appointed as Employer Agents and Quantity Surveyors on the development, and we are looking forward to working with High Street Residential.”