Intervention Architecture’s Post

Plans submitted for first new homes at Smithfield Birmingham Lendlease has submitted a planning application for a landmark mixed-use building within its exciting regeneration of Birmingham Smithfield. Subject to approvals, the building, designed by Bell Phillips and local practice Intervention Architecture, will overlook Manor Square and include 408 high-quality build-to-rent homes. It will be the first residential element of the regeneration of Smithfield and is planned to also feature a health and wellbeing-inspired leisure facility; as well as a mix of independent shops, bars and restaurants for the public to enjoy. Outline plans for the 17-hectare Smithfield development were unanimously approved by Birmingham City Council in June this year. Altogether the scheme will include over 3,000 new homes and will bring cultural and leisure attractions as well as new workspace for businesses. Birmingham’s historic Bull Ring Markets remain at the heart of these plans and will be housed in two new buildings. Designed with a focus on high-quality architecture, landscape, and public spaces, Smithfield Birmingham will also create up to 9,000 new jobs and deliver significant economic benefits to the city and wider West Midlands region whilst preserving the rich local heritage, particularly the historic Bull Ring Markets, which have existed for over 800 years. Selina Mason, Director of Masterplanning for Smithfield said: “This is an important step for both Lendlease and the Birmingham Smithfield regeneration scheme. These plans kick-start the transformation of this iconic site, bringing much needed new homes and spaces that support health and wellbeing and the local community. “We’re proud to be playing a part in preserving Birmingham’s historic Bull Ring Markets, while also creating a vibrant new neighbourhood that will benefit the city for generations to come and look forward to this application being considered by the City Council early next year.”