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Commercial Property

Stoford to lead regen for new BBC Birmingham base

Developer launches consultation on two planning applications for former Typhoo Tea factory and wider ten-acre masterplan

Stoford will lead the regen of the former Typhoo Tea factory in Birmingham to create a new home for the BBC(Image: BBC)

Property developer Stoford has landed the brief to spearhead the regeneration of a former factory which will be the new home of the BBC in Birmingham. The corporation announced last month that it would be leaving its long-time home of the Mailbox in the city centre to set up a new base in the former Typhoo Tea factory in Digbeth.

Birmingham-based Stoford has now won the contract to lead the multimillion-pound transformation of the factory which will deliver a 84,000 sq ft purpose-built broadcast centre.

The 1920s complex in Bordesley Street, will undergo a partial demolition and regeneration, will house a range of editorial teams including the Asian Network, Newsbeat, Radio WM and Midlands Today. The transaction is said to be the largest office pre-let in the city for the past three years.

Stoford is working with land owner The Gooch Estate, Glenn Howells Architects, planning consultancy Turley and a number of public sector partners with the aim of delivering one of Birmingham's first net zero carbon buildings in construction. The BBC base will also benefit from a new tram stop nearby on the Bull Street to Digbeth extension and is a short walk from the HS2 station Curzon Street.

Stoford director Gerard Ludlow said: "The BBC will be the centrepiece of a transformative development in Digbeth and its 20-year lease commitment will help to drive much-needed further private sector investment in the Digbeth area. Crucially, we will be respecting the history of the site by conserving the distinctive character of the historic building while also creating a landmark modern development fit for a world-leading 21st century broadcaster.

"This is a unique opportunity to take the bones of this former factory and create a truly vibrant building. We're excited to be part of this important new development for Birmingham."

Subject to planning consent, construction work is expected to start on site in early 2023, ready for occupation by the BBC in 2026.