Plans in for regeneration of landmark site in Birmingham city centre

Plans have been submitted for the redevelopment of a landmark brownfield site in Birmingham city centre.

The proposal by Watkin Jones Group is within the Rea Valley Urban Quarter and reflects Birmingham City Council’s aim to transform this part of the city into a sustainable urban neighbourhood.

Spread across six blocks at the northern end of Sherlock Street, the 551-home development is within walking distance of both the Bullring centre and the new HS2 terminal.

The scheme has been designed by Glenn Howells Architects.

As well as a range of high quality one, two and three bed homes, the proposal features a wellbeing centre and a range of communal space, including residents’ lounges, workspaces, a roof garden and a landscaped courtyard, the latter of which will be for the use of the wider public as well as residents.

The proposals also include some 1,500 square metres of flexible business and commercial space.

The development is expected to create, directly and indirectly, around 305 jobs during each year of construction, and up to 120 further jobs when fully operational.

Watkin Jones’ chief investment officer, Alex Pease, said: “Sherlock Street is our largest build-to-rent scheme to date. It is also one of our most exciting. We have a long history of investing in Birmingham and are committed to providing not only a brilliant living experience for a wide range of tenants but a flagship development that contributes to the city’s economic and social development.”

The planning application was submitted by Turley, who also carried out the stakeholder and public engagement exercise prior to submission.