THE PLACE TO B1- WHY BIRMINGHAM?

Birmingham is now a major international city, a renaissance which is reflected in the forever changing and expanding city centre.

Birmingham has always been at the centre of the UK’s communications, both in terms of the motorway network, rail network and the growth of Birmingham International Airport on the fringe of the city.

Over recent years Birmingham’s economy has experienced a significant transformation with a number of major schemes developed to provide hotels (Hotel du Vin, Malmaison) conference/exhibition centres (International Convention Centre, National Indoor Arena), shopping centres (Bullring) and offices (Brindleyplace, Colmore Square/Snowhill).

In order to allow for the expansion of the City Centre the inner ring road, which was described as a ‘concrete collar’, has been lowered in many places, with further enhancements planned, which has now allowed the City Centre to be significantly enlarged. The Big City Plan has recognised this change to the dynamics of the central business district and the ‘market’ now includes lettings out to the middle ring road as part of the overall city centre office take-up figures.

The Jewellery Quarter not only has a long and illustrious history but over recent years has also experienced significant changes with more to come. In recognition of the unique qualities of the area it was designated a Conservation Area in 1980, one of the largest in the UK, and is currently seeking UNESCO World Heritage status. However, time has not stopped still with plans well advanced for a reconfigured square to be created in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter, the successful B1 office building which is home to over 750 employees, the numerous residential schemes providing a ready workforce and extensive range of shops, restaurants and bars.