Plans have been drawn up for a new hotel and leisure centre in a run-down part of the city centre set to be transformed by HS2.
Serena Hotel has submitted proposals to build a four-storey, 51-bedroom hotel at Ladbrooke House , complete with a swimming pool, gym and spa.
Architect Alessio Venturi told the Post he wanted to create a four or five-star hotel to draw in custom from across Europe, as well as facilities to bring in local people.
The listed building, on the corner of Bordesley Street and Oxford Street, has most recently been used by Birmingham City Council but Mr Venturi said it was in need of renovation.
He said: "At the moment the building hasn't been cared for, for a long time. First of all, we have to improve the quality of the existing building, which is locally listed.
"We want to completely renovate the external space. We will make big improvements. Parts of Oxford Street are in a fairly poor state. The idea is the new entrance will make it a lot better."
Plans for a hotel follow a major period of .
In recent months, the Post has reported on plans for a , a and a new .
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The proposals for the building also include a 350-person banqueting suite for weddings and social events, as well as a bar and restaurant.
The Grade B-listed building started out as a warehouse when it was built in the 1930s and has more recently been used for training.
has become a more attractive proposition on the back of plans for the HS2 Curzon Street Station.
While there have been fears about construction work and the knock-on effect to Digbeth, the Curzon Street masterplan sets out a vision to improve connections with the eastern part of the city, which would greatly improve footfall.
"HS2 was a consideration, but it was not the main reason, " Mr Venturi said.
"The area needs a lot of work and a lot of renovation is the aim of the council.
"We are trying to achieve the best building that we can and push the design higher than it normally is. We want to create an example to follow in the area. We think this area has fantastic potential."
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Plans have been submitted to Birmingham City Council and Mr Venturi said he hoped to have permission in place by September. It work would take about a year to complete the scheme.
The building already has 50 parking spaces although that will be reduced as the outside of the scheme is redesigned. The proposals also include a double-storey side extension and light well.
The submission to the city council states: "The proposed change of use would create an extra business activity and will make the premises more suitable for its effective use.
"The proposal involved the double-stores side extension, which will reflect the similar character in style, shape, materials and bricks than those of the existing building."
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