Birmingham Business Park proves a hit with city cyclists

BIRMINGHAM Business Park and its 150 acres of mature parkland provided the perfect setting for Birmingham Midland Cycling to hold its annual road race event.

Having recently been recognised for its walking and cycling facilities, Luke Selibas, organiser of the event, said BBP offered a safe and scenic environment where all abilities could enjoy the sport.

More than 120 riders turned out for the event, with three races taking place. Competitors included riders taking part in their first race right through to several who had recently returned from racing in international standard events in the Middle East.  

“Birmingham Business Park was incredibly hospitable and we hope we can build on the success of the event and stage future races at this location,” he said.

BBP manager Liz Allister who worked with Mr Selibas on the organisation of the event, and who  organises a packed programme of social events for the 7,500 employees of occupiers on the site, said: “I’m increasingly hearing that cycling is becoming the new golf for business professionals and with over 100 companies based at BPP, we felt the event would really capture their interest.

“The days are gone when business parks were just about space for people and cars. Any successful destination now needs to engage with the local community and offer an array of activities, both to help attract new occupiers and persuade existing ones to extend their leases.

“The race provided a great finale to our second Sustainability Week, which had everything from woodland walks and pond-dipping to organised bike rides.”

She said the feedback from occupiers had been very positive, and this may lead to the cycling club being invited back.

BBP currently has its lowest vacancy rate in a decade and the site recently saw delivery of the latest phase of a £6m rolling refurbishment programme. This culminated with the unveiling of a new 25,000 sq ft Grade A office building.