Work starts on converting former Cadbury HQ into flats

CONSTRUCTION work has started on the £16m refurbishment of Franklin House, the former Cadbury headquarters in Bournville. The scheme will see the development of 79 one and two-bedroom apartments.

Birmingham-based property developer Court Collaboration has appointed construction firm Shaylor Group to carry out the redevelopment of the 1960s commercial building into ‘The Franklin’, which promises to create a host of luxury residences in one of Birmingham’s most famous villages.

The project, which is expected to be completed by next spring, will see a team of contractors working closely with the developer’s architects to incorporate many of the building’s original features including the 1950’s ‘Festival of Britain’ balustrade that spans the central staircase.

Anthony McCourt, director at Court Collaboration, said: “The Franklin provides the first true opportunity to experience city living in the suburbs. The apartments will be modern and sophisticated, while incorporating the building’s incredible high ceilings and large windows, and is situated just yards from Bournville train station, making the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham University and City Centre all very accessible.

“Shaylor Group has a wealth of experience with commercial to residential projects and to have them start work on the site is a huge step forward for the development.”

The building, which has been vacant for several years, was purchased in 2014 by Court Collaboration in a joint-venture with Headland Developments, a Hong Kong-based firm backed by Chinese investors.

Shaylor Group has also been appointed as lead contractor on Royal Sutton Place, Court Collaboration’s £10m transformation of Sutton Coldfield’s former town hall building into 18 luxury residences.