Opportunity

A derelict 90,000 sq ft industrial estate of brick construction located 6 miles to the northwest of Birmingham City Centre. The estate was in close proximity to the M6 motorway network and adjacent to the Black Lake tram stop which is directly connected to the heralded HS2 high speed railway; a railway that offers door-to-door connections to the heart of London and key surrounding areas.

Added Value

The whole estate was acquired in two tranches from different owners without the benefit of bank funding. An asset management strategy was attributed, and the units were let following a refurbishment.

A detailed design and urban analysis to ascertain different redevelopment options was undertaken; a planning application was subsequently submitted and approved for a high-quality sustainable housing scheme comprising of 70 homes.

This now completed waterside residential quarter has been constructed in accordance with the Secured By Design (SBD) scheme, integrating crime prevention measures into its design to deter criminal activity. Notably, it holds the distinction of being the first project to receive Black Country Garden City Accreditation, thus serving as an exemplary case study for the local planning authority.