£100m regeneration plans revealed for mixed-use scheme in Digbeth
Hartwell has unveiled £100m regeneration plans in Digbeth, to deliver a mixed-use scheme on the former Phoenix ironworks.
The automotive and property development firm will create Phoenix Yard, a landmark scheme with the potential to provide 260,000 sq ft of media and educational space, commercial floorspace, 240 homes, retail, public realm and landscaping.
Proposals seek to transform a 2.8-acre brownfield beside Coventry Street, Oxford Street, Meriden Street, and Digbeth High Street, creating 200 construction jobs and 500 jobs once completed.
Founded in 1919, automotive group Hartwell owns the brownfield site and previously ran the garage. In the last 100 years, the company has grown throughout the UK, and diversified into property investment and development.
Developed by architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, Phoenix Yard will target BREEAM ‘Excellent’, WELL certification, WiredScore Platinum, SmartScore, NABERS and a minimum of 10% biodiversity net gain.
Hartwell says that plans respond to Digbeth’s potential as a growth area in the city, with the BBC moving its Birmingham HQ to Typhoo Wharf and Lendlease’s £1.9bn Smithfield regeneration scheme.
Joanne Churchill, group property manager, Hartwell said: “We are delighted to unveil our vision to transform an under-utilised brownfield site to deliver Phoenix Yard, a new mixed-use neighbourhood at the heart of Digbeth. Through unlocking the potential of this site, our plans promise to positively contribute to the area’s ongoing transformation into a thriving and vibrant part of Birmingham, delivering an exciting range of new opportunities and living space for the future.
“In recent years Digbeth has benefitted from significant investment and is recognised by Birmingham City Council as a key growth area. This scheme has been designed with this investment and the wider ambitions for Birmingham in mind. The potential delivery of media and educational space will support the continuing growth of BBC Midlands HQ and its ecosystem following the BBC’s multi-million-pound investment into the area. Similarly, new homes will complement the site’s location in Digbeth’s creative centre. This will be supported by excellent connectivity, which is enhanced by nearby major transport investments including HS2’s Curzon Street Station and the Metro Eastside Extension.
“We look forward to receiving comments on the proposals from local residents and businesses, with feedback set to help inform our final planning application.”
Ahead of submitting a hybrid planning application to Birmingham City Council, Hartwell Plc has launched a public consultation for local residents and businesses to see and comment on the plans.
Acting on behalf of Hartwell are Allford Hall Monaghan Morris, Ridge, Cundall, Hoare Lea, Macfarlane + Associates and Newmark.
