The Big City Plan was launched in 2010 with the intention of regenerating the city centre. This ambitious proposal will create a beautiful environment along with exceptional transport links that can sustain commercial growth while accommodating new communities. The plan aims to diversify the economic base and establish a unique identity for the city centre.
How do they Propose to do This?
An area of 800 hectares in the city centre area will be regenerated. The regeneration will focus on growing the city centre by designing the streets to support travel, particularly by walking within the city centre. A flexible approach will be taken as to how land will be used. Quarters will be established with culture in mind. Environmental sustainability will be integral to the plans.
What Areas Will be Regenerated?
Cornwall Street Corner
This area will be demolished and renamed as Cornerblock. In its place, expect contemporary high-rise glass fronted offices and a well-appointed walkway for pedestrian access. The offices will have a gym, showers and bicycle storage as well as a rooftop garden.
Broad Street
A 42-storey residential tower is being built here. Hoping to attract graduates and young professionals, the apartments will have communal areas as well as a gym and business lounge. Experts believe Birmingham can support many private rental enterprises including serviced apartments in Birmingham such as http://birminghamservicedapartments.co.uk/deluxe-1-bedroom-birmingham-serviced-apartments/. With business growing and universities thriving, there is plenty of scope for development.
Snowhill Estate
The estate located near the station will be transformed into the largest office complex outside of London. As well as offices, there will be 3 acres of public space including a winter garden, Colmore Square Piazza and a water feature. Europe’s longest green wall will also be found here.
Train and Metro Expansion
The train expansion aims to link up Wolverhampton and Brierley Hill to Birmingham airport and the HS2 terminal, making public transport a viable option and taking more cars off the road. The metro expansion will see trams return to New Street and will eventually reach out to seven areas of the city as far as the HS2 station and the airport, greatly increasing the efficiency of the network.
Christopher Wray Building
This will become student accommodation along with shops, bars and restaurants, as well as a basement ‘ruinpub’.
