Birmingham's Roundhouse to become activity hub
An historic building in Birmingham is to be transformed into an activity and enterprise hub after Birmingham City Council approved the plans.
The Roundhouse, based on St Vincent Street in Birmingham is a Grade II listed building, built in 1874. Designed by architect W.H. Ward, the horseshoe-shaped building is a well-known Birmingham landmark, originally used as stables and stores.
Now, the building will undergo a series of changes to make it a base from which to explore the canal network.
It will also include a cycle hire and repair workshop as well as a shared working space for conservation organisations.
The plans, submitted by The Canal & River Trust and National Trust were approved by the council earlier this week and work on the project is due to start next year. It is hoped that the project, which was unanimously supported by the planning committee, will create a gateway for people to explore Birmingham's natural and built heritage by foot, bike and boat.
In 2015, the development secured a £2.2million grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund to carry out the work.
A £225,000 development grant will now be used to work up these approved plans into a larger £2.9m scheme that will see the full restoration of this building.
Stuart Mills, from the Canal & River Trust, said: "The Roundhouse is a fantastic building right in the heart of Birmingham and we are delighted to have this opportunity to bring it back to life.
"Once restored the building will become an important part of the regeneration of Birmingham's waterside whilst also maintaining the building's character and historic value."
Lizzie Hatchman, general manager for the National Trust in Birmingham, said: "Budget cuts and housing pressure mean Birmingham's local historic buildings and green spaces will be increasingly under threat.
"Safeguarding the places that have shaped the character and landscape of our city for the people of Birmingham matters.
"Bringing the Roundhouse back to life is an opportunity for two national charities, partners and local volunteers to pull together to protect the past for future generations to enjoy and learn from."
The grant is designed to help when the cost of repairing an historic building is so high that restoration is simply not commercially viable.
