Residential conversion of historic Jewellery Quarter building progresses

The conversion of a Grade II listed building in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter is progressing apace.

Harris Lamb Building Consultancy is overseeing the renovation of Reliance Works at 41-42 Caroline Street, which was formerly occupied by jewellery box manufacturing firm Pickering and Mayell, is being converted into nine apartments and a commercial unit.

Paul Wells, director at Harris Lamb, said: “This is a lovely project to be involved in. Dating back to 1826, this historic building is being converted into one- and two-bedroom apartments and a ground floor commercial unit further to our planning team securing permission for the redevelopment on behalf of Reliance Works in 2019.

“The Grade II status of the building means we need to be sensitive to its heritage throughout the conversion process. Presently, we are nearing completion of the structural repairs and replacement of the roof and overhauling its existing windows to ensure we preserve its character and retain as many existing original features as we can. This will allow us to commence the refurbishment of the internal areas.

“In addition to the refurbishment, we are forming a new section to the rear of the premises, designed to complement the style of the original building. Completion is expected later this year, with the apartments and unit being marketed by Maguire Jackson,” he added.

The Reliance Works was the hub for Pickering and Mayell’s jewellery case making plant for almost 100 years from 1913 until 2012 when the business merged with the Talbot group and vacated the premises to relocate nearby.

Sam Silcocks of Harris Lamb’s planning team, who secured the permissions for residential conversion, added: “The Reliance Works was is in a very poor state of repair and in need of significant investment at the time of our application to secure its long-term future. With Reliance Works Ltd’s considered and meticulous approach to working with the historic character and value of the building, we were delighted to achieve the relevant permissions from Birmingham City Council.

“Planning policy would normally resist a residential scheme in this location.  However, through detailed negotiations with the Local Planning Authority, it was agreed that a residential conversion would be appropriate to make the conversion viable and to secure the future of this important site.”

The Reliance Works is the residential arm of CityBlock, a student accommodation provider.