Green light given to £100m project

Apr 13 2007 By Poppy Brady, Birmingham Mail

WORK on two new restaurants in the first phase of a £100 million development opposite Edgbaston's cricket ground moved a step closer today after city planners gave proposals the green light.

Consent has been given for a 14,000 sq ft foodstore, 9,300 sq ft of shops and restaurants, plus 17,000 of leisure space in the first commercial phase of the 450,000 sq ft scheme.

More than 300 luxury apartments are also being built on the development, alongside office space and a 120 bedroom hotel.

Residents have been assured that the restaurant plans do not include hot food takeaway-style businesses which could encourage a litter problem opposite the cricket ground.

Landowner Calthorpe Estates, which owns the site, has been working with architects Crouch Butler.

Geoffrey Barrett, director of Crouch Butler, said: "Our aim has been to design a scheme fit for this world famous location which will match, if not surpass, similar areas in other major European cities.

Edgbaston Mill will have a key role to play as a vibrant social hub linking Edgbaston's sporting venues, cultural centres and green spaces."

David Povall, Calthorpe's commercial director, said: "Edgbaston Mill promises to become a unique retail and leisure destination that Birmingham can be proud of.

"We are close to securing occupiers for all elements of this phase who are all very keen to locate to this site."

Work is due to begin on the commercial element of the scheme, which is being developed with partners Cordwell Property Group this summer and the scheme is due to be completed in phases from 2008.