Homes England has announced Digbeth Loc Studios Ltd as its preferred development partner (subject to contract and standstill period) to deliver a major new creative and mixed-use neighbourhood at Fazeley Street in Digbeth, Birmingham.
The plan is part of the continued regeneration of Digbeth and should help to strengthen Birmingham’s growing reputation as a national hub for film, television and creative production.
The new neighbourhood will build on the success of established organisations and venues including BBC Studioworks, The Bond, The Custard Factory and The Tea Factory.
In partnership with the Mayor of the West Midlands and Birmingham City Council, the development will support the growth of the region’s creative industries while unlocking new homes, employment opportunities and investment for the area.
Jo Nugent, Executive Director, Midlands at Homes England, said: "This is an exciting opportunity to build on Digbeth’s unique identity and growing reputation as a centre for creative excellence. Working closely with our partners, we want to deliver a place that celebrates the area’s heritage while creating new opportunities for people and businesses to thrive.”
"Digbeth Loc Studios has already played a pivotal role in the area’s growth as a destination for film and television production. Together, we will seek to create a vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood that supports economic growth, delivers new homes and further strengthens Birmingham’s position as a leading creative and cultural centre."
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, said: “This time last year I announced a bold vision for Digbeth – that it would be bigger, better and bolder than Manchester’s Media City.
"Today’s announcement by Homes England is another key milestone in that journey which has seen Digbeth emerge over the last 12 months as a nationally significant hub for the creative industries.
"Steven Knight, alongside the BBC, Production Central WM and others have played a massive role in bringing about this transformation which is really starting to snowball. These are exciting times for Digbeth and, by continuing to invest in our amazing local talent, we can help grow our economy, create new jobs and put the West Midlands centre stage of the UK’s creative sector."
