Express & Star

Framework on i9 development in Wolverhampton is almost complete

The concrete frame and upper floors of Wolverhampton's eye-catching i9 modern office development are close to completion.

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The i9 development

During the last three months contractors GRAHAM have installed the pre-cast concrete columns and floor slabs, with just the roof level structure to be put in place on the six-storey building.

The Wolverhampton Council development has already become a prominent feature of the city centre's skyline and once the frame is finished in the coming weeks work will begin on adding the brick-faced, pre-cast external facade.

i9 emerged as a scheme following the success of the award-winning i10 complex on the opposite side of Railway Drive.

The finished building will provide up to 52,000sq ft of office space, has potential for 5,600sq ft of leisure space for restaurants, and is planned for completion in the summer of 2021.

The i9 development

It is the next step in developing a thriving commercial quarter at the heart of Wolverhampton Interchange - bringing further investment and jobs to the city.

Councillor Stephen Simkins, cabinet member for economy, said: "i9 is somewhat symbolic of the current climate where we are aiming to relight our city after being hit hard by the Covid-19 pandemic.

"This fantastic development will help us stimulate economic growth in the city, bringing hundreds of jobs and much-needed opportunities for local people in our recovery from the current crisis.

"As well as helping get Wolverhampton back on its feet, it is another step towards our aspirations of creating a commercial district in this area of the city centre."

The i9 development

The design has drawn influence from Wolverhampton's family of red-brick Victorian buildings - providing a complementary, contemporary addition fit for 21st century working life.

Wolverhampton Council and property developer, Ion, selected Glenn Howells Architects' design for i9 as the winner in a national design competition.

They are the architects behind the Paradise Birmingham scheme - one of the biggest city centre development projects in the UK.