Beorma gains planning approval

The controversial Beorma Quarter development, , 107m Digbeth Tower for the home of the people of Beorma , which includes a 27 storey glass tower together with the regeneration of historic buildings such as the Cold Store has been approved unanimously by the planning committee who welcomed the £150-170 million development which will create 2,000 jobs and show confidence in Birmingham together with giving the potential with which "Digbeth could exceed Broad Street as the city’s premier night spot".

The site will be turned into offices, workshops, shops, public squares, apartments and includes the restoration of three historic buildings, including the Cold Store. Dominating the scheme is a 27-storey glass tower, designed to reflect former medieval plot lines. It will be powered by a green energy system, the first of its kind in the UK, drawing water from ancient wells 100 metres below the city centre. http://www.birminghampost.net/birmingham-business/birmingham-business-news/commercial-property-birmingham/2009/05/25/work-to-start-this-year-on-170-million-birmingham-landmark-65233-23686219/

The developers Sahlia developments attracted particular praise for working with residents of neighbouring residential development Brolly Works to iron out concerns with the loss of daylight to flats including a redesign of part of the Beorma development together with working with the council and neighbours in creating the scheme. The scheme which the developers hope to begin later this year provides welcome confidence in the city and it's ability to attract world-class investment and bodes well for continued investment from the Middle East.