A transformative €120m regeneration scheme is set to breathe new life into Birmingham's Digbeth district, as Hartwell officially submits plans for the ambitious Phoenix Yard development. The century-old automotive and property giant is betting big on what many consider Birmingham's most promising creative quarter, positioning itself at the epicentre of the city's urban renaissance.
The 1.134-hectare brownfield site, strategically positioned between Coventry Street, Oxford Street, Meriden Street, and Digbeth High Street, will deliver 22,482 m² of media and educational space alongside 240 residential units. What makes this particularly compelling for investors is the project's alignment with Birmingham's broader £2.3bn regeneration pipeline, including the nearby BBC headquarters at Typhoo Wharf and the £1.9bn Smithfield Market masterplan - creating a powerful confluence of public and private investment that could deliver exceptional returns.
Award-winning architects Allford Hall Monaghan Morris have crafted designs that honour the site's Phoenix ironworks heritage while targeting ambitious sustainability credentials including BREEAM 'Excellent', WELL certification, and WiredScore Platinum. The development promises a minimum 10% biodiversity net gain, positioning it perfectly for ESG-focused institutional investors increasingly demanding green credentials.
"We are grateful for the positive feedback we've received during the public consultation period from the local community, stakeholders, and businesses regarding our proposed plans," said Joanne Churchill, group property manager at Hartwell Plc. "Our vision for Phoenix Yard aims to create a dynamic mixed-use neighbourhood at the heart of Digbeth. By tapping into the potential of this site, our plans are set to significantly enhance the area's evolution into a thriving and vibrant part of Birmingham, providing an exciting array of new workspace, living and amenity opportunities for the future."
The economic impact extends far beyond the immediate €120mn investment, with projections showing 200 construction jobs during the build phase and over 500 permanent full-time equivalent positions upon completion. For developers and investors, the timing couldn't be more strategic - Digbeth's transformation into Birmingham's creative hub is gaining unstoppable momentum, with property values in the area already showing double-digit growth year-on-year.
The planning application represents more than just another development; it's a calculated bet on Birmingham's future as a major European creative and tech hub. With the city's population projected to grow by 150,000 over the next decade, Phoenix Yard positions early investors at the forefront of one of the UK's most significant urban regeneration stories.
People Mentioned:
- Joanne Churchill - Group Property Manager, Hartwell Plc
- Olivia Lane-Nott - Spacecraft Consulting (on behalf of Hartwell Plc)
Companies and Their Roles:
- Hartwell Plc - Developer and site owner (automotive and property development company)
- Allford Hall Monaghan Morris - Architects
- Ridge - Consultant
- Cundall - Consultant
- Hoare Lea - Consultant
- Macfarlane + Associates - Consultant
- Newmark - Consultant
- Spacecraft Consulting - PR and communications
- Birmingham City Council - Planning authority
Images: Source provided by Hartwell Plc
Get the latest real estate news and investment insights from Europe Real Estate - your trusted source since 1999. To receive daily or weekly updates. Sign up here!
