The go-ahead has been given for the transformation of the highly anticipated Connaught Square scheme in Digbeth, Birmingham
The substantial site, which has a gross development value in excess of £200m, will create an entirely new destination within the city, comprising a vibrant mix of residential, commercial, retail and public space designed to enhance and further cement Digbeth’s fast emerging reputation as Birmingham’s Creative Quarter.
Connaught Square will be constructed in two phases. This will feature a total of 770 spacious new apartments, including a 27-storey landmark tower, circa 42,000 sq ft of commercial space, a community gymnasium and boxing academy – all of which have been included as a result of community consultation.
It will also incorporate a new riverside walkway and terrace alongside the River Rea, which runs through the middle of the development and will be opened up as a feature to the public for the first time in a century.
Significant work has been done between SevenCapital and city council planners to bring this feature to life. Connaught Square will increase Birmingham’s capacity for attracting increased business and tourism.
From an economic point of view, Connaught Square is also expected to contribute hundreds of jobs for the city. A high number will be created during the construction process, with the project also set to support apprentices at the nearby South and City College, offering them valuable practical experience.
Once completed, Connaught Square should provide around 250 full-time jobs within the proposed retail, community and commercial space plus around 100 supply chain and ancillary jobs as a result of the additional commercial floorspace.
Damien Siviter, director at SevenCapital commented: “Connaught Square is already one of the most significant and talked about regeneration projects to date in Birmingham, as it bridges the gap between the main city centre and the growing creative quarter.
So throughout the entire design process, it has been imperative that what we create and deliver is the right fit for the area, the city and importantly right for the community that will form as a result of Connaught Square.”
Bal Sohal, Chairman of SevenCapital added: “Connaught Square will be a flagship development for SevenCapital and for Birmingham. 10 years in planning, this is a project that will transform a prominent area within Birmingham city centre, create jobs and homes and build a vibrant, dynamic space for residents and visitors alike to enjoy for years to generations.
Work on site is expected to begin in summer 2019 with the first phase expected to complete in March 2022 with hopes for the whole site to be completed by August 2023.
