New tower at site of former Birmingham car park set for approval
Plans to build a new tower at the site of a city centre car park have been recommended for approval.
Developers are currently seeking permission for a scheme which would provide 506 student bedspaces in the heart of the city.
The development includes proposals for a 21-storey tower, as well as an eight-storey shoulder building, amenity space such as a gym, communal roof gardens and ‘public realm’ fronting Suffolk Street.
A council officer’s report, published ahead of a meeting this week, listed several benefits the plans could provide, such as contributing to housing need and the re-use of a brownfield site.
It went on to say that the ‘less than substantial’ harm which would be caused to the significance of nearby heritage assets would only reach “very low levels”.
“In my view, I consider there are enough benefits associated with this proposal to outweigh the heritage harm,” the report continued.
“The proposal has the benefit of providing high quality student housing, regenerating a brownfield site and introducing good design.”
The council officer ultimately concluded: “The proposed development would see the delivery of a high-quality student housing, in a sustainable location on brownfield land.
“The proposed residential apartments would make a meaningful contribution towards Birmingham’s housing provision and the regeneration aspirations for this part of the city centre.
“It would create a distinctive place and in accordance with local and national policies. The scheme would also provide economic, social and environmental benefits.”
The plans for 120 Suffolk Street, Queensway were recommended for approval and will be considered by Birmingham City Council’s planning committee this Thursday, March 19.
If the proposals are given the green light, the 506 student bedspaces would include 441 studios and 65 cluster apartments.
