Land deal boosts Birmingham City stadium plans

Knighthead Capital Management has bought a 48-acre site that boosts its plans for a new Sports Quarter and home for Birmingham City Football Club. The firm has acquired the former Wheels site on Bordesley Park from Birmingham City Council, bringing its total land holding to more than 60 acres. Knighthead and BCFC plan to build a new multi-use stadium, training facilities and other mixed-use real estate development. The pair described the deal as a “significant step” in the club’s “growth journey” following its takeover by Knighthead last July. Knighthead co-chief executive and chairman Tom Wagner said: “When we invested in Birmingham City, we made it very clear that we had an ambitious vision to transform the experience for our fans and make a positive contribution to the growth and vitality of the city of Birmingham. The acquisition of the former Wheels site is an important next step in making this a reality.” BCFC chief executive Garry Cook added: “Our owners have an ambition that is greater than anything this Club has ever seen, and when we deliver it the impact on the global reputation of Birmingham will be seismic.”