Centenary Square plans move forward
Plans to transform one of Birmingham’s largest public spaces are set to move a step forward.
Cabinet is being asked to approve a full business case setting out how Centenary Square will be redeveloped to create an area where people can stop, relax and socialise, as well as hosting a variety of events.
Councillors are also being asked to accept £10.55 million of Enterprise Zone grant funding from the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP) to fund the costs of delivering the Centenary Square project.
The square’s new design was chosen following a high profile competition which attracted nearly 200 entries from architects and designers around the world.
Edinburgh-based Graeme Massie Architects was unveiled as the winner from a shortlist of five in June 2015, with a design incorporating lighting columns, a water feature with fountain jets which can be drained to create events space, a glade of trees, seating and greater integration of the Hall of Memory into the wider design of the square.
Work on the scheme is scheduled to begin in early 2017, subject to subsequent planning permission, with the project due to be completed by summer 2018.
Paul Dransfield, Strategic Director for Projects and Programmes at Birmingham City Council, said: “Centenary Square is one of the largest and most important public spaces in Birmingham and yet it is not being used to its full potential, with many people simply using it to pass through on their way to other parts of the city.
“This project will transform it into a place where people will want to stop, relax and socialise, as well as creating a space suitable for a wide range of public events. The square will be further enhanced by improved transport links with the addition of a Metro stop, as well as the nearby Arena Central development and the opening up of the pedestrian access between Centenary Square and Chamberlain Square as part of the Paradise redevelopment works.
“I am pleased that we are now in a position to set the ball rolling with a full business case and look forward to seeing this project get under way early next year.”
Cabinet will consider the report when it meets tomorrow (April 19).
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