BBC inks deal with developer for Digbeth move
The BBC has committed to signing a deal with developer Stoford for its new broadcast centre in Digbeth, located at Birmingham’s former Typhoo Tea Factory site.
Stoford will lead the multi-million-pound scheme, which will provide just over 84,000 sq ft of purpose-built space. The broadcaster decided to relocate to the site from its existing headquarters at Birmingham’s Mailbox last month.
The new broadcast centre will house editorial teams including BBC Asian Network, BBC Newsbeat, BBC Radio WM and Midlands Today. The deal is thought to represent the largest office prelet in the city for the past three years.
The BBC has committed to signing a deal with developer Stoford for its new broadcast centre in Digbeth, located at Birmingham’s former Typhoo Tea Factory site.
Stoford will lead the multi-million-pound scheme, which will provide just over 84,000 sq ft of purpose-built space. The broadcaster decided to relocate to the site from its existing headquarters at Birmingham’s Mailbox last month.
The new broadcast centre will house editorial teams including BBC Asian Network, BBC Newsbeat, BBC Radio WM and Midlands Today. The deal is thought to represent the largest office prelet in the city for the past three years.
Stoford was previously appointed by the Gooch Estate to redevelop the site in 2017.
The developer is working with Glenn Howells Architects, Turley, and “a number” of public sector partners to deliver the scheme, with the aim of producing one of the city’s first net zero carbon buildings in construction.
The cohort also seeks to draw up “a comprehensive vision around Typhoo Wharf and the wider area”.
Gerard Ludlow, director at Stoford, said the developer was working with the BBC to deliver a building that will be a new benchmark for sustainability in Birmingham. He added that it is on track to achieve BREEAM Outstanding status, an EPC A rating, a Gold WELL Core score, and three-star Fitwel healthy building certification.
“The BBC will be the centrepiece of a transformative development in Digbeth, and its 20-year lease commitment will help to drive much-needed further private sector investment in the Digbeth area,” said Ludlow.
“Crucially, we will be respecting the history of the site by conserving the distinctive character of the historic building, while also creating a landmark modern development fit for a world-leading 21st century broadcaster.
“This is a unique opportunity to take the bones of this former factory and create a truly vibrant building.”
Sandeep Shambi, partner at Glenn Howells Architects, said: “The building itself dates back to 1929 and has been derelict for more than 40 years. By opting for adaptative reuse over new build, we are bringing it back to life for the next 100 – not only to keep this historical legacy going, but to uphold the low carbon principles we all strive for.”
A public consultation opens today and will run until 22 September. If plans proceed, works are expected to start in early 2023, ready for the broadcaster’s relocation in 2026.
The wider scheme will see the transformation of more than 10 acres of underutilised land around the site, including new public spaces around Typhoo Wharf and the adjoining canal basin.
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Image © Glenn Howells Architects
