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Plans in for new MasterChef studios in Birmingham

Proposals would see the renovation and extension of historic Banana Warehouse building in city's Digbeth district

CGI showing how the revamped Banana Warehouse in Fazeley Street, Digbeth, could be transformed into new TV studios to house BBC show MasterChef(Image: K4)

Plans have been lodged to create the new TV studios which will house hit BBC show MasterChef when it relocates to Birmingham.

The channel announced in February that it was proposing to move all formats of the show - for amateur, professional and celebrity chefs, young MasterChef and Christmas specials - to a brand new space in the city's Digbeth district.

Plans have now been submitted to Birmingham City Council which showcase how the former 'Banana Warehouse' building, which dates back to the 1840s, could look if it receives the backing of planning chiefs to be transformed into new studios.

The grade II listed warehouse, at the Warwick Bar site next to the Grand Union Canal, would be renovated and extended to create the new facility which would have a sound stage, smaller studios, pre- and post-filming areas, offices, storage, outdoor filming area and car parking.

It is hoped that production will be able to commence in 2024 with Shine TV, which makes MasterChef, agreeing a six-year deal.

London-based property developer and investor Stanhope is leading the Banana Warehouse renovation, with design by Digbeth-based architecture practice K4 and planning consultancy from Avison Young.

A report by Avison Young said the Warwick Bar area of Digbeth was once at the heart of one of Birmingham's historic manufacturing areas and was shaped by the canals which facilitated the rapid growth of that quarter in the 1800s.