The old thread got wasted by the hacker so it's time it was resurrected, I'll start by posting some of the pics which were in the previous thread.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham/JewelleryQtr9.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham/JewelleryQtr8.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham/JewelleryQtr7.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham/JewelleryQtr6.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham/JewelleryQtr5.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham/JewelleryQtr4.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham/JewelleryQtr3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham/JewelleryQtr13.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham/JewelleryQtr12.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham/JewelleryQtr11.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham/JewelleryQtr10.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham/JewelleryQtr14.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham/JewelleryQtr15.jpg

Some great pictures there sniley but it still needs some through redevlopment

walking through that area i always feel like i've stepped back in time

dont know where this is but yet another development for this very up and coming area

C/03500/05/FUL
Camden Drive/ Camden Street/ Sloane Street, Land at, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham

Re-development of Site to provide 107 apartments, B1 workshop space and A1/A3 retail space following refurbishment of Sloane House, 48 Camden Street, building fronting Camden Drive and demolition of all other buildings
JEWELLERY QUARTER CONSERVATION AREA

Jacey Homes Ltd
Camden Street
Birmingham
B1 3EN

Robert Seager Architects
3 Featherston Road
Streetly
West Midlands
B74 3JW

Octohedron on George street is just about finished

http://tinypic.com/fcjwb4.jpg

http://tinypic.com/fcjw3p.jpg

Don't know much about this but there's steel work going up on the corner of George Street and Newhall Street
http://tinypic.com/fcjzg4.jpg

The Miller scheme on Saint Pauls Square looks like its nearing completion too. There's some nice detailing in the brick work which this pic really do justice to.
http://tinypic.com/fck0ug.jpg

To my eye Octohedron is the best new residential building built so far in the Quarter although that isn't saying much! I wonder how many years we are going to have to wait until they knock down some of the Bellway crap that has been built recently in the area. The Charles Church effort on Newhall Hill is I suppose inoffensive and the Crosby block is quite good but generally the new build in this area is dire and regretfully I suspect it wouldn't have been allowed in Manchester (I hasen to add that I am not a fan of our northern adversary). I feel that Birmingham's planners need to riase the bar so that all new developments are quality design.

The steelwork on the corner is an apartment block by Chord which is allegedly a landmark modern building, I'll wait for the rendering before I decide weather I agree with this well used description

I probably should have checked if they had a web site first and then posted second, oh well, here's the web site which has a few visuals:

http://www.chordhomes.co.uk/

I'm undecided on JQ1 (George Street), but St. Pauls Place looks good particularly the courtyard image.

It'll compliment Octohedron well. Just need something to happen with the Jewellery Box now.
http://tinypic.com/fcodv9.jpg

I was looking at this building today and thought it'll be turned into flats soon.
http://tinypic.com/fcoew5.jpg

Beautyful might add a bit more spark into the J-Q. I hope so for it is the most historic area of Brum it's a beautyful place. They need some mid-rises and plenty of apartments and offices brand spanking new mordern and glass........

I have to agree on the bellway crap. The back of Charles churhc "Q" is excellent though.

the Orb is quite good too depite lookign awful in the renders.

I like the look of both of thesenew ones especially JQ1.

That corner piece of JQ1 is excellent - simple but elegant. It is good to see that the egos of some developers/architects aren't that big that they have to scream "LOOK AT ME!!!!" in their buildings. I notice buildings like this more because they are classy.

Now a children's nursery and small work units.

CH

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c258/cargohold/Hockley-Fire-Station.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c258/cargohold/Hockley-Fire-Station2.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c258/cargohold/Hocley-Fire-Station1.jpg

The Orb, surprisingly, is very good indeed.

But a lot of residential development in the Jewellery Quarter is appalling. The Frederick Street facade of the Charles Church scheme is terrible, and there's that truly horrific one that overlooks the patch of green opposite the Jeweller's Arms pub. You know, the one with the beige brick, mini-turrets and green window frames. How did THAT get though?

Oh and Octohedron is good, too.

Wimpey and Bellway have a lot to answer for! It is terrible to think that we are going to be stuck with these buildings for the foreseeable future. Octohedron is good and so is Orb (although the original plan for Orb was even better). The design for the new Charles Chruch scheme on New Hampton Street is also a disapointment and far blander than the original renderings.

Octohedron
http://tinypic.com/io3mnd.jpg

Good news again! :cheers:


From BBC Online

Minister backs Creative Village
The Communities & Local Government Minister is backing Birmingham City Council's vision for a Creative Village in The Jewellery Quarter by 2010.
David Miliband will be signing a charter on Tuesday, aiming to attract people to live, work and visit.

The quarter, home to many creative firms and more than 200 listed buildings, will be developed in a village style with affordable homes.

The councillor for regeneration said several areas need to be looked at.

Some news about the Jewellery Quarter.

Site is key link to Jewellery Quarter Mar 16 2006
:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::


Lambert Smith Hampton has been appointed by Birmingham City Council to market one of the city centre's most high-profile development sites.

The property consultancy is searching for a development partner for a two-acre site fronting Great Charles Street, Ludgate Hill, Livery Street and Lionel Street, close to Snow Hill Station. The land was previously earmarked for the city's new coach station, the proposal for which has now been abandoned, and has been used as a surface level car park for the past 15 years.

According to Paul Marlow, director and head of development and regeneration in Lambert Smith Hampton's Birmingham office, the site is right for a high density mixed use scheme.

He said: "Interested developers will be considering a mix of offices, residential, hotel, leisure and convenience retailing, and they will also have to replace the existing car parking facility. Our clients are looking for innovative proposals which maximise the site's opportunities on what is a major gateway frontage into and out of the city.

"Any new development will form a key link between the Jewellery Quarter and the central business district."


Birmingham City Council's cabinet member for regeneration, Ken Hardeman, said: "The marketing of this major site will confirm the extent of interest so far expressed by developers. It will enable us to determine a suitable mixed use scheme that can meet the aspirations of the council."


The closing date for proposals is April 10.

Yesterday's Mail carried an article and photo of the new four storey building to be built just off St Paul's Square ; Caroline St.It's also mentioned in today's Post article about Edgbaston Galleries.

does anyone now whats going on with the developments here, there does seem to be alot going on with small scale developments, but some of the larger things have stalled ? any news anyone, I love thjis area, its the most charming part of the city, be great to know development is moving on here

IMHO, a *very* sympathetic development by MCD/Turner Woolford Sharp on George St in the Quarter:

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a264/Biosonic/MCD-GeorgeSt.jpg

:)

I didn't get any photos of the developments around the Jewellery Quarter but I did get a pub, some shops, a spooky graveyard and a few derelict buildings....I love this area of Birmingham!

Derelict premises on the corner of Powell Street/Pope street
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT006816072006.jpg

On the opposite corner....a very "Birmingham" building if that makes sense?
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT006916072006.jpg

Across the road
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT007016072006.jpg

Around the corner on Legge Lane there's a mixture of fine architecture and utter dereliction!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT007116072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT007316072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT007416072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT007616072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT007716072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT007816072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT007916072006.jpg

Camden Drive, just off Legge Lane! This was a total shock and quite a pleasant surprise to me. It's a bit shitty and surrounded by derelict buildings but I love hidden roads like this and it's hard to believe it's in the centre of Birmingham!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT008216072006.jpg

Looking back up to Legge Lane
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT008316072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT008016072006.jpg

Some of the buildings on Camden Drive. The first one shows the Hyatt Hotel in the near disrtance.
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT008116072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT008716072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT008816072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT008916072006.jpg

Back on Legge Lane and I couldn't resist a BT Tower shot.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT008516072006.jpg

Turning left off Legge Lane into Frederick street and this is the Jewellery Quarter proper

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT009016072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT009216072006.jpg

Interesting but derelict building on Frederick Street
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT009316072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT009516072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT009616072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT009816072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT009916072006.jpg

I took a few photos of the cemetery on the corner of Vyse street/Warstone Lane. Very spooky place even in the summer sun, again hard to believe this is in central Birmingham!

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT010316072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT010116072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT010016072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT010216072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT010416072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT010516072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT010616072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT010716072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT010816072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT010916072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT011016072006.jpg

Back to normality

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT011416072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT011116072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT011216072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT011316072006.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT011516072006.jpg

i just dont get it....... most cities in the world would love to have something like the jewelry quarter as part of them, but they dont, we do...and its a total gm of a place, a real asset....but people realy are not taking advantage of it. this should be the place to be and the place to be seen...... yet half of it is derelict!

It's in a transitional period Woody - there are pockets of land being taken up for apartments, but what we don't want is the area to become too much of a yuppie zone to force out the actual jewellers! Yes there are some scruffy bits and we'd like the developers to look at conservation and refurb as much as new build.
A very promising point here - a waitress in the All Bar One on Newhall St goes to the School of Jewellery and she's from Belfast. I asked her why she wanted to come to Brum to learn jewellery design? She said because if you want to learn about jewellery in the UK, then the only place is Brum. That made me very proud and I oredered another goblet of St Pauli Bier.

Interesting but derelict building on Frederick Street
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v173/Robdann/Birmingham%206/PICT009316072006.jpg


This is also one of my favourite buildings in Birmingham, and if I had the money I would turn this into something like a cafe with 4 flats above. It is truly lovely.

Thanks for the great pics Smiley :cheers1:

Tell me - how do you manage to get near and far objects in focus? The one with the Hyatt looks as if it is a model in the back garden, and the same with the bollard & BT! :)

I love that building too Bio and there several more around the Jewellery quarter that are as eye catching but neglected.

Concerning your question - Everyone seems obsessed with megapixels when it comes to cameras but mine's only a 3.2mp camera! I just have a decent optical zoom on it (x8) and as long as the nearest object that you zoom on is not too close anything within the near distance should also appear as clear. My lens has it's limitations though, as is shown on the tower block thread, when objects over a few miles away start to lose their sharpness.

Thanks for all the pics Smiley.I imagine if half of those buildings were in the centre they would have disappeared in the fifties and sixties.Now we have a chance to restore most of them.Some wonderful facades there.

apparently the building in the last picture has some sort of preservation order on it, deservedly so in my opinion. rumour has it that its owned by a local guy with a few property interests in the area which, if he is true to form, will eventually receive some sympathetic attention.

the derelict pub in the first batch of shots is the George & Dragon. terrible shame the way this place has been allowed to crumble, if i remember rightly, this also supposedly benefits from some form of listing. i believe that when it closed it was completely original inside, having suffered from noneof the dubious brewery refurbs over the years. it still featured the original bar servery, carved back fitting, outdoor and small "snug" that was served from the main bar through a small hatchway. no doubt all of this heritage has long disappeared on the back of some rusty old transit pick up

I went around this area for the first time in years, and it's amazing all sorts of architectual styles, Georgian, up to modern, all stuck together, higgedly piggedly, and there's some wonderful Victorian workshops and Art deco frontages on every street, all of which I missed in the below picts,

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0412.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0415.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0416.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0413.jpg

Sorry, but they're not the greatist pictures, the roads are rather narrow and my Camera don't do wide..

But really I was amazed by the place, far out stripping Liverpools Ropewalks for arichectual interest for example.

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0421.jpg

Are there unused retail units on the right facing the canal here?

I wonder when work is going to begin on the building in the background.A couple of floors to be added if I remember correctly.

Spindly Mouse? Sorry Brindley House?

You can just about see where they've taped the windows, and I think I did notice something happening at the base, so hopefully, soon.

Thanks for the update.

There's a bit of bumf about this in the today's property section. Some have been sold off plan, and tbh this sounds like it could be pretty good for apartments. They said they are retaining a lot of original internal features - the stepped windows and steps in floors. This will allow apartments with bedrooms on different levels to lounges, sunken baths etc. :)

It sounds like they are raising awareness again ready for a formal launch?

The foyer will be double-height, with public access through it to the ground floor canal-view restaurant and coffee lounge.

Also - 2 floors added for penthouses.

The revised AE Harris scheme is now being recommended for approval:
http://80.86.36.120/vault/XDDocStore_5/0168951_FINAL.109-138%20Northwood%20Street.C0260006OUT.pdf

Wow, what a Planning application report! I don't know who is responsible for all the alterations since the last application, but I do have to applaud the current development, as I think It will create a really good strong development in the heart of the jewellery Quarter. I do understand the various concerns about loss of industrial land, but the new development is providing significantly more overall space, which will be of a high quality and simply not achievable unless there were resi to subsidise it.

some pics! By me!

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0766.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0767.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0768.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0769.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0770.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0771.jpg

Of course it's all depends how much you like redbrick light industrail building, persoanly I love 'em!

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0772.jpg
Although that one's not red brick...

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0773.jpg
And only 1 of the 3 is red in that one!

Of course it's all depends how much you like redbrick light industrail building, persoanly I love 'em!

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0772.jpg
Although that one's not red brick...

It's Dudley blue brick. Other is Birmingham red brick. Both local, and if you see them anywhere else in the UK, they are from around here.

So let's go for a walk down Victoria Street, no hang on, Vittoria street, no that's not right,
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0774.jpg
the head sign man must have have had a funny accent or something


Anyway:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0775.jpg

lovery Victorian/ edwardian buildings

Just look at the detail

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0776.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0778.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0777.jpg

And next door this loverly clean lined Deco building:
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0779.jpg

then a nice modern building, in keeping!!

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0780.jpg

not all red brick
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0781.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0782.jpg

Georgian, in powder blue

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0783.jpg

bit more red brick
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0784.jpg

red brick goes Brutalist

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0785.jpg

Then you get average 50s ness:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0786.jpg

and then a nice sikh temple, don't get too many of them in Halton!

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0787.jpg

It's this different styles all shoved together that I like

new flats:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0788.jpg

The Argent center.
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0789.jpg

Tis a bit run down in places...

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0790.jpg

Suitable for DIYer...

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0799.jpg

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0798.jpg

I love that third shot up, the way the buildings curve with the road.

The Grottyness continues:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0800.jpg

Then turn the corner and:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0801.jpg

new stuff:

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0802.jpg

Nice detailing on doorway, don't ya think?

http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0803.jpg

I like legge lane

I think alot of this older stuff has some class and would only require a developer to get their mitts on it to bring out its inner beauty.

^^Urban Splash would work wonders with warehouses (had to add some alliteration sorry) there.

dunno what the heck these things are for in the JQ
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0870.jpg

Last one, read the sign....
http://i15.photobucket.com/albums/a366/robinsonworld/HPIM0871.jpg


http://www.skyscrapercity.com/images/smilies/goodnight.gif

I walk down Vittoria St every day from the Big Peg into town and it's a lovely street - the new red brick bit is the School of Jewellery extension and works really well. The Argent Centre is also a gem (geddit!)

It's Dudley blue brick. Other is Birmingham red brick. Both local, and if you see them anywhere else in the UK, they are from around here.

Close enough, actually Staffordshire Blue Brick. If you go to Keele University their chapel is built from it and is gorgeous.

There are some beauties in those pictures. Couldnt find the history of that three storey building with Manton on it (turn the corner and) sadly, very reminiscent of the early tube station buildings such as Aldwych in London.
Interesting history of those buildings along Vittoria Street in the Pevsner guide.

I got it from Dr. Carl Chin, he refers to it as Dudley blue brick, which was once Staffordshire anyway.

The picture is of one of the two JQ pavement trails. Both have interesting facts about the JQ. One runs along Newhall Street and the other up Newhall Hill / Frederick Street.

Property week article

Birmingham’s rough diamond
Sean McAllister reviews new development in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter

03.11.2006
By Sean McAllister
It may be a cliche, but the Jewellery Quarter really is Birmingham’s hidden treasure.
A conservation area covering 265 acres (107 ha) with a 250-year history and containing 200 listed buildings, the quarter is gradually becoming gentrified with five independent art galleries, two museums and many of Birmingham’s best restaurants and bars.
However, the Jewellery Quarter is far from being a polished gem. It is a regeneration zone that is very much a work in progress, and has around 100 derelict buildings and various sites crying out for development. It is also home to one of the city’s most controversial development sites: the Ludgate Hill site.
Developers such as MCD Developments and Chord Developments, based within the quarter, have already spotted the potential and in the last five years developed mixed-use schemes worth more than £250m. Such development has helped turn the quarter into an up-and-coming area popular with residents, creative businesses and high-end bars and restaurants, which still offers investors and developers plenty of opportunity.
Andy Munro, operations director at the Jewellery Quarter Regeneration Partnership, describes the change: ‘Five years ago you could only get a bacon butty in the Jewellery Quarter, and they looked at you funny if you asked for a salad. Now, it’s turned into a cappuccino society and businesses like this ambience.’
The quarter has arguably more history and character than any other party of Birmingham. First famous for toys, then buckles, until shoelacing killed off the industry, the area finally became the home of jewellery manufacturing during the 1700s. The industry grew in importance and many of the buildings there today are from its glory days in the 18th and 19th centuries. But industrial use, bomb damage in World War II and a lack of investment all contributed to a decline in the fabric of the area.
The quarter remains an important centre for the jewellery trade. There are between 400 and 500 businesses in the area linked to the industry – including 100 jewellery retailers – and it makes 40% of all the jewellery manufactured in the UK.
A renaissance in the area has seen it become a thriving area for creative support businesses, such as PR and media firms, software companies, developers, including Stoford Developments, and architectural practices – half of all the city’s architectural firms are housed in the quarter.
Even Arts Council England, which will relocate from London, has shortlisted properties solely in the quarter with criteria for a freehold building of around 10,000 sq ft (930 sq m).
‘Its historical nature means it has a lot of small buildings,’ says Philippa Pickavance, partner at Drivers Jonas. ‘This makes it easier for small businesses to afford their own premises instead of going to the traditional core around Colmore Row where they would have to rent 2,000 sq ft (186 sq m) on part of a floor.’
Rents in the quarter are also lower – typically £15/sq ft (£161.46/sq m) but as high as £19/sq ft (£204.52/sq m) – compared with prime rents on Colmore Row of £30/sq ft (£322.92/sq m) or £21-24/sq ft (£226-£258/sq m) on the sides street off Colmore Row.
‘The Jewellery Quarter is perfect for businesses like ours,’ says Claire Barker, director at PR firm Kinetic Communications, which is based at Tenby Street. ‘It’s in the city centre with a B1 postcode, yet has relatively quick access and exit to city limits owing to its proximity to the ring road.’
It is this enthusiasm from businesses as well as residents that provides plenty of development opportunities. MCD has invested between £140m and £180m in the quarter over the last five years – a figure that managing director Steven Byrne says could rise to £300m because of the huge potential he sees.
Chord is also committed to the area, and has three mixed-use developments in progress. Since 2000, it has developed schemes worth about £100m. ‘There’s nowhere like it and I like the fact that it’s cut off from the city. Other areas don’t have the same inherent character or community spirit,’ says director Geoff Shuttleworth. He believes that 60% of Chord’s future activity will occur in the area.
Admiration for the area is not limited to developers located in the vicinity. ‘It’s an emerging business location and I like it,’ says Mark Robinson, development director at Chase Midland. ‘In London you’ve got areas like Camden and Clerkenwell that have a more relaxed business environment and offer smaller offices, which is something that the Jewellery Quarter provides Birmingham.’
But Byrne believes the quarter is still undersold as a location and has more to offer than higher-profile areas such as Eastside. ‘Eastside is soulless and it will take that area more than a decade to create a soul. The Jewellery Quarter already has a soul but it doesn’t have the profile,’ he says.
That is likely to change with several planned high-profile developments (see map, previous page). MCD is converting Brindley House – an empty 140,000 sq ft (13,000 sq m) 1970s office block on Newhall Street – into a £37m scheme with 182 flats.
Across the road, a joint development between RO Developments and St Bernards Property has started developing a £63m mixed-use scheme called Newhall Square on the former site of Birmingham’s science museum. Due for a phased completion between 2008 and 2010, it will comprise 30,000 sq ft (2,790 sq m) of offices, galleries and work studios; 30,000 sq ft (2,790 sq m) of retail, cafes and bars; a 100-bedroom hotel; as well as 234 flats surrounding a new public square.
“The Jewellery Quarter already has a soul but it doesn’t have the profile
”
Steven Byrne, MCD

Chris Bond, chief executive of RO St Bernards, says the Jewellery Quarter is a perfect location for mixed-use development.
‘It has a good residential environment – close to the city centre with frontages on to the canals – that is already proven. Plus it’s attractive to the “brass plate set” such as quantity surveyors, lawyers, engineers and architects, so it has a good balance.’
Chord’s current largest scheme is St Paul’s Place. Due for completion next summer, the £35m scheme will have 26,500 sq ft (2,460 sq m) of office space for sale at £250/sq ft (£2,691/sq m) and 176 flats behind the red brick facade of the former factory of buckle maker Thomas Walker.
Conservation piece
But in the past year, larger developers have paid greater attention to the quarter. The main interest has surrounded the Ludgate Hill site – a 2 acre (0.8 ha) surface car park that fronts on to Great Charles Street ring road. Amec was appointed to regenerate the site and incorporate a new coach station back in 1998, but earlier this year the council remarketed the site, receiving bids of between £6m and £24m.
HBG fended off bids from the likes of Castlemore, Sandpiper Estates, Abstract Land and Chase Midland. However in August, HBG’s Dutch parent Royal BAM Group forced a U-turn on the decision.
Abstract Land, Dandara, Sandpiper Estates and Stoford Developments have resubmitted bids for the site. A decision is expected next month.
The site is intended to be a new gateway to the Jewellery Quarter from the city centre. The only access is by a road crossing at Newhall Street and a decrepit footbridge that links Church Street to the Ludgate Hill site. Any new development will have to include a new connection, which would link it to the Snow Hill development and open it to the city core.
‘Connectivity is key,’ says Abstract Land director James Howarth. ‘The bid with the best connectivity to the city core is most likely to win because you’ve got to draw people over the ring road and bring people to the new restaurants and bars.’
His proposed scheme features a public square to give people ‘a sense of arrival’ when they cross to the Jewellery Quarter from the city centre.
But development in the quarter is not straightforward. Developers must adhere to the quarter’s design guide to ensure new buildings fit with the local character, while a conservation and management plan forbids residential development in a designated employment area.
Local engineering company AE Harris & Co, located on Northwood Street, encountered this problem. It wants to downsize and relocate outside the quarter and finance the move by redeveloping its site. It submitted an outline application for a 215,000 sq ft (20,000 sq m) mixed-use scheme with 105,000 sq ft (9,625 sq m) of offices, 18,500 sq ft (1,725 sq m) of retail and 95,540 sq ft (8,875 sq m) residential, but the plans were rejected last month because of the residential content.
The quarter is not all about offices and residential. Retail is growing in importance to support the area’s growing residential and business community. MCD is due to complete the refurbishment and recladding of the Chamberlain Building in January. Tesco Express, Subway and William Hill have signed up for the ground-floor retail space.
‘Now Tesco is moving here, we are in a position to attract the attention of larger retail investors,’ says Philip Jackson, director at niche agent Maguire Jackson. ‘Ten years ago it was too specialised for many non-jewellery retailers.’
Clive Dutton, director of planning and regeneration at Birmingham City Council, says the council wants to see the quarter become the city’s creative village by 2010. ‘We want to create the right conditions to grow it into a honeypot for creative businesses,’ he says.
‘It means safeguarding the jewellery-related activities, but also encouraging more creative industries to locate to the area.’
The Jewellery Quarter remains a rough diamond, but with the proposed development and the rising interest in the area, it has the potential to become the Tiffany of regeneration zones. While seeking further redevelopment and connectivity improvements, planners and developers must be careful not to destroy its unique selling points – its character, charm and community spirit – and risk turning it into another Ratner-esque district.
A residential boom
Over the next 18 months, residential developments worth more than £150m will add 1,000 new homes to the Jewellery Quarter, according to Knight Frank.

‘The Jewellery Quarter’s popularity has heightened over recent years as carefully designed new developments have been introduced to stand alongside the character-rich Victorian buildings,’ says Mark Evans, partner at Knight Frank.

Evans adds that the Jewellery Quarter also offers value for money compared with other residential areas in the city centre: prices can be lower by as much as £75/sq ft (£807.30/sq m).

Flats are usually sold for between £220/sq ft and £300/sq ft (£2,368.08/sq m and £3,229.20/sq m), whereas top-end residential prices in the city centre can reach £400/sq ft (£4,305.60/sq m).

Interesting news.

Council U-turn to save historic city metal firm
One of Birmingham's oldest metal-bashing firms edged closer to survival after councillors changed their minds over a controversial Jewellery Quarter redevelopment plan.

Proposals to demolish the A E Harris buildings in North-wood Street and build flats, shops and small industrial units on the site were backed by the council planning committee yesterday.

The committee had previously resisted the application, on the grounds that the land is zoned chiefly for manufacturing in the Jewellery Quarter Development Plan.

But members changed their minds after being told that A E Harris was inn danger of going out of business if it could not use the money raised from selling the site to move to a smaller out-of-town industrial estate.

A report to the planning committee warned: "The company has to relocate if it is to survive. If permission is refused there is a real danger that existing jobs will be lost and the site will become derelict losing the opportunity to improve the appearance of the conservation area and to provide new employment opportunities."




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Claims that approval would "open the floodgates" for widespread housing development in the Jewellery Quarter were dismissed by the report.


A E Harris managing director Russell Luckock welcomed the decision, which he said gave the company hope for survival.


Mr Luckock said: "Hopefully, this will give us a way of keeping the show on the road.


"We have been here for 126 years. The reason we are having to move is because of the severe competition from the Far East."


A E Harris once employed more than 250 people. It now has a workforce of 58.


A final decision on the Northwood Street redevelopment plan will be made by the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.


Mr Luckock added: "We are keeping our fingers crossed. I am absolutely convinced that the development being proposed will enhance the Jewellery Quarter, which has changed out of all recognition over the years."

The council finally sees sense, i wonder how many jobs were lost in the interim..

There was something over the weekend in the Post saying that there are is over £150 million worth of apartments planned in the JQ in the next few years :eek:

read the "rough diamond" (not the towers) article above... very interesting reading and very encouraging

One bed apartments in Octohedron going for £110k on Rightmove...

I'm thinking about it.....

One bed apartments in Octohedron going for £110k on Rightmove...

I'm thinking about it.....

A wise investment move if you do Blunther, this area will see huge increases in property value over the next 10 years.

Seriously worth thinking about Blunther - this is the only part of Birmingham that faces a significant increase in apartment prices (as the quarter develops).

Eventually Masshouse will, but that will take longer.

Pap, it's actually only for the Birmingham City Workers scheme, whatever the hell that is...

Still....one bed apartments in Abacus on Cheapside...good buy for the future you all reckon?

It's them bloody service charges that get me though... the mortgage I can stretch to, but an extra £100 a month for some ass to clean the widnows every other month I can't be doing with....

The city worker scheme is quite good actually, all you need to do is demonstrate that you work in the centre and that you are not going to rent it out.

What do they mean by the 'centre'?

I'm guessing the University doesn't count.... :(

Well, im sure you could be a key worker, adding to the teaching of undergrads and the knowledge economy.

Though might depend what you do at uni.

it'll also mean that no secure parking place will be allocated for you either -



if you work in the city apparantly you don't need a car :ohno:

Something in BP today about lower priced car parking here :)

A full list of applications for the Jewellery Quarter

C/05194/06/FUL - 108 Vyse Street (Creative Watch) - Install 3 windows to front elevation.
C/05261/06/FUL - 31 Lionel Street (Cornwall House) - Erection of additional storey and refurbishment of existing building.
C/04778/06/CAC - 99/105 Northwood Street - Demolition of existing vacant workshop & office (single & two storey).
C/04957/06/ADV - 36 Frederick St - Tesco - Display of 2no internally illuminated projecting signs, 1no. internally illuminated fascia sign and 1no.ATM surround panel. (Note internally illuminated signs not allowed in Conservation Areas - signs must be externally illuminated).
C/04844/06/LBC - 32/36 Albion Street - INDUSTRIAL MIDDLE. Alteration and extension & Alterations and extension to front & new build at rear - to create commercial and live/work units.
C/03070/06/FUL - 6-8 Branston Street - (GOLDEN TRIANGLE) - Conversion of 1st & 2nd floor workshops (B1) to 2 two bedroom flats & 1 two bedroom live/work unit, including external alterations & 2 rear roof dormers - (re-submission of C/04106/05/FUL).
C/04215/06/LBC: 47 Frederick Street - Grade II Listed - Internal refit to offices on 1st/2nd floors, provision of new WC’s & removal of internal walls.
C/03630/06/CAC - 28 Carver Street - Demolition of existing building and C/03629/06/FUL - Erection of 7 apartments and one retail/commercial A1/A2 unit & parking.
C/03628/00/FUL - 34 Carver Street - Erection of 24 apartments and one retail/commercial A1/A2 unit and parking for 24 vehicles.
C/03631/06/CAC - 30 Carver Street - Demolition of existing building.
C/03528/06/FUL - Regent House, Frederick Street. (INDUSTRIAL MIDDLE). Change of use from workshops to commercial (GF/1st and 2nd Floors) and live/work units on 4th and 5th floors.
C/03856/08/FUL - Corner Frederick Street/Warstone Lane.
Installation of shop-front (Tesco), ATM and rooftop plant - (plus gantry with large TESCO sign and outside trolley park).
C/03280/06/LBC - C/03282/06/FUL - 93-94 Vyse Street (GRADE II LISTED) - GOLDEN TRIANGLE - (‘Clissolds’ & ‘Toghill’) buildings. Refurbishment of building, erection of rear extension, change of use to A3 (Licensed restaurant) and workshops.
C/03178/06/FUL - Pemberton Street - Demolition of existing industrial works in Conservation area and erection of a 3 storey apartment block comprising of 10 No.2 bed, 2 No.1 bed apartments along with associated hard and soft landscaping.
3188/06/CAC - 23-26 George Street - Demolition of existing buildings.
* OUTLINE PLANNING APPLICATION - C/07490/05/OUT - 32-46 Branston Street - (GOLDEN TRIANGLE) - Erection of 25 one bedroomed APARTMENTS in a 5 storey building - outline application with design, external appearance and access included.
* A E Harris - (See item in Trade Talk - Decision deferred).
109-138 Northwood Street/5-6 Graham Street. (INDUSTRIAL MIDDLE).
C/02602/06/CAC: Demolition of all existing buildings and structures on site except for the listed building at 109/111 Northwood Street.
C/02601/06/LBC: Mixed use development of land at Northwood Street including conversion of 109/111 Northwood Street to A3 restaurant use.
C/02600/06/OUT: Mixed use re-development of site to provide 9625 sqm of B1 floorspace (including 1639 sqm of affordable workspace), 8875 sqm residential floorspace (APPROXIMATELY 150 APARTMENTS), 1725 sqm retail floorspace, 462 sqm community uses and decked car park of 308 spaces including at least 90 spaces for public use.
C/02332/06/FUL - 85 Caroline Street - (St Paul’s) - Erection of building to provide 8 apartments and 523 sqm of commercial floor space, access and parking.
* C/02301/06/FUL - 50-60 Northwood Street. (INDUSTRIAL MIDDLE) - RESIDENTIAL development of 44 apartments and 32 parking spaces.
C/01426/06/FUL - 15-23 Augusta Street (GOLDEN TRIANGLE) - Alterations to ground floor parking, access and shop fronts. Partial demolition of existing building and construction of replacement wing to form new entrance and shop unit. Change of use of second floor and construction of third floor to form 64 room HOTEL.
* C/03371/04/CAC - 43/49 Northwood Street. (INDUSTRIAL MIDDLE). Demolition of existing office building 43/49 Northwood Street. Proposed to build 4 storey building containing 23 APARTMENTS and 4 commercial units. This building would be one storey higher than building next door.

Thanks for the info brum2003, interesting reading.

Remember the Reid designed building for 62 Caroline Street?

http://i19.tinypic.com/441pa1w.jpg

Looks like this is what going here instead.

http://i16.tinypic.com/2rcltt4.jpg

:ohno: ehh!

Better. More appropriate to the area. It's still too large for the buildings around it though... however i'm not sure any modern building could have economically fitted in here so i guess i approve.


That said the other design was more interesting. Just way out of character for the area.

I think out of character buildings can work sometimes. Brutalist is a Victorian area doesn't but that one possible could have. Either way, I like both designs but the latter seems more ordinary and less original.

I hope it looks better in the flesh. For some reason, they tend to in the JQ.

I quite like the Reid design (not seen it before) but it does look like it has just dropped in from outer space, and not really appropriate.

If only we had that where Orion is...

im with bio, i love the reid design. its a great high quality building. and yes i accept that this is a conservation area but i do sort of wish there was more negotiation with the council and developers to try and better inegrate it with the surrounding instead of starting from scratch and coming up with the current thing!

The new design looks poor there. Are these the same yellow tiles that are on the Camden thing on Camden street. If so Im not keen

They've started this and something opposite it too.

They've started this and something opposite it too.


Hi I also noticed this building work today, on Caroline Street, the one opposite the office block is massive and includes some listed frontages further towards great hampton street

Also there is development work going on on Livery Street with the old foundry being converted to apartments and on Henrietta Street at the side of the Newhall Square development...plus the mint, love this part of town

and the derelict building by the clock on frederick street has been refurned, the one with the green bricks
:banana:

I think it's called Ansty Court

There's a poor quality visual on here
http://www.propertyforlife.com/property/property-details.php?country_id=1&id=190

Love that building with the green bricks - it also goes back a long way too.

Spencer Point looks like it's about to happen. No activity on site but I did notice some fences have gone up.

This is one of my favourite new build in the city.

http://www.spencerpoint.co.uk/SPENCERPOINT.pdf
http://www.pcptarchitects.co.uk/

^^ spencerpoint looks a very nice building

where's birmingham great park?

^^ Rubery

http://www.google.co.uk/maps?li=d&hl=en&f=d&iwstate1=dir:to&daddr=+(Brimingham+Great+Park)+%4052.398093,-2.009555&iwloc=1&dq=great+park&cid=52482921,-1893619,8075893309647032853

--BEATEN TO IT--

^^ Rubery

http://www.google.co.uk/maps?li=d&hl=en&f=d&iwstate1=dir:to&daddr=+(Brimingham+Great+Park)+%4052.398093,-2.009555&iwloc=1&dq=great+park&cid=52482921,-1893619,8075893309647032853

oh rite kool.

might have a look whats down there. anyone been?

Spencerpoint does look nice - and we need a lot more of these good quality small schemes around the JQ and city centre at large...

does anyone know if spencerpoint is under construction, as the webpage is confusing, one section says ready for autumn 2007 and another autumn 2006....either way it should be under construction ?

Spencer Point looks like it's about to happen. No activity on site but I did notice some fences have gone up....

Another good-looking not-so-small scheme for the JQ gone in this week:

C/02006/07/FUL

90-104 Constitution Hill/Northwood Street

93 bed hotel with 38 basement parking spaces, retaining listed frontage.

Baker Goodchild Architects, Great Hampton Estates developer.

Looks fab IMO (although these aren't terribly descriptive...)

http://i15.tinypic.com/49hr6s2.jpg

http://i12.tinypic.com/4hk7uyf.jpg

Own Tramstop too. I bet they'll be popular!

Looks like they are retaining an old building/facade? Like it.

C/02154/07/CAC

Great Hampton Estates have applied to knock down what I think is/was Kentex clothing warehouse at 90-104 Constitution Hill. From Google Earth I think this is a bog-standard warehouse.

It seems that GHE are pulling their socks up and pushing the area for a bit of a spruce up. Watch this space (literally) for further developments!

So many wonderful albeit abandoned buildings along this stretch.

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c258/cargohold/Constitution-Hill-1.jpg

http://i29.photobucket.com/albums/c258/cargohold/Constitution-Hill-2.jpg

A couple of examples from Constitution Hill.Thanks to Cargo.

There is something of London Road in Liverpool about those buildings.

I think it's the odd bay windows, and those roundral thingys.

So many wonderful albeit abandoned buildings along this stretch.

This area will have to be 'sorted out' before the 4/5* hotel opens 200 yards away at Snow Hill!

http://i16.tinypic.com/2rcltt4.jpg

http://i12.tinypic.com/4zdbzq1.jpg

A couple of visuals of Antsy Court
http://i18.tinypic.com/6d19gua.jpg

http://i18.tinypic.com/63wxuky.jpg

and site has been cleared
http://i16.tinypic.com/66v59x3.jpg

Antsy Court looks like a boring heap of shit. How many seconds did it take to draw that up?

I like Antsy Court - looks pretty industrial.

Thanks for the pics Foxy :)

[IMG]http://i18.tinypic.com/6d19gua.jpg

[]

It isn't a world beater but dovetails nicely into the space.Does anybody know anything about that great looking building on the right of the development in the second pic? Very northern European looking.It's a shame that its side will possibly be blocked by the new construction.I love that roof.

Thanks for the photos Foxtrot.

you're welcome :)

Antsy Court looks like a boring heap of shit. How many seconds did it take to draw that up?


Yes looks like another quick draw load of bollocks, wont see tourists taking pictures there of course lol! who lets all this heap of shit buildings get approved so easily? because they are certainly helping increase ugliness :ohno: .

Mark - you generally don't get tourists taking photos of people's houses, and that is what this is! This is the Jewellery Quarter don't forget. Small scale, industrial, brick.

see post below error

i have been told by the planning department in Bham council that no more appartments will be given the green light from now on in Jewellary Quarter. I wait to see if this is true when the developers wave a load of cash.....:cheers:

i have been told by the planning department in Bham council that no more appartments will be given the green light from now on in Jewellary Quarter. I wait to see if this is true when the developers wave a load of cash.....:cheers:

Very interesting. Especially considering the huge development they want to call St Georges which I imagine going through initial talks/planning now.

The JQ plan, with the 7 year cycle of development, has a couple of years left to run I believe.

There's plenty left in the pipeline :)

I get the industrial look - the size, shape and materials all fit in well. In the render below it has a monolithic presence. The frontage does have the look of a modern mill.
But there's no 'draw' to the building. I can't see any detail in any of the photos posted by Foxy. I think it would look better if the central section (the part that's one storey higher than the rest of the building) had a crown to it - nothing grand, just some simple detail. Or if the top of the walls had some flourish, something that's common on older brick buildings (see photos in post # 99).
http://i18.tinypic.com/63wxuky.jpg

ansty is an anagram of nasty!

still quite like it tho, even if its a bit low key.

14 commercial units thats a lot for a small resi development. Looks like the whole of the ground floor along the street will be shops and businesses.

Mark - you generally don't get tourists taking photos of people's houses, and that is what this is! This is the Jewellery Quarter don't forget. Small scale, industrial, brick.

You do where I live! And yes I do live in George Cadburys Utopia, but it's precisely that he put some thought into it (and the architects did) that they do.

This Ansty Court thing is a crock of shite IMO!

In keeping but modern.

Me likee.

What's there now?

This!
http://i16.tinypic.com/66v59x3.jpg

well its a good point if people did put enough detail into designs maybe people would take pic's, i would do of old houses now and again anyhow.

MCD are planning something new on Water Street:
http://www.mcdproperty.com/dev10021.asp

I assume the site is the wedge between the road and the canal at the "Subway" end. The visual isn't a lot of help though in determining the exact location. Looks OK, but to my mind it doesn't address it's location very well. I don't recall seeing a planning application either

After further thought I think this is the newbuild element of Brindley House and therefore at completely the opposite end of Water Street (I forgot it carried on the other side of Ludgate Hill). The multimap link on the website is a bit misleading

http://www.mcdproperty.com/media/images/dev21_1_3.gif

I really like the look of this - elegant and not over showy.

Not sure where it is going though - it could well be the Brindley House end. Thanks for the info spread :)

It's a little different to the other apartment blocks going up so I guess I could learn to like it...

cool development, im a lilte lost where it is though!

does anyone know whats being built at Legge Lane ?

Cheers

A shining example of enterprise
Jul 4 2007




By Joanna Geary, Business Staff


A rising demand for unique commissions could be the key to increasing the profile of Birmingham jewellery makers amongst consumers, a local expert has said.

Gay Penfold, manager of the the University of Central England's Jewellery Industry Innovation Centre, said the tradition of London-based companies subcontracting to Birmingham firms meant customers were often unaware that their purchases had a Midlands link.

Speaking as the JIIC celebrates its tenth anniversary, Ms Penfold said there was increasing opportunities for jewellers to make their names with commissioned works.

She said: "Birmingham has always been world-renowned for jewellery within the industry itself, but the tradition is that that large London luxury houses will subcontract to skilled craftspeople in the West Midlands.

"In a sense this doesn't matter as it is more important that the industry understands the link, but it does mean that sometimes the work of skilled Birmingham jewellers is not as publicly acknowledged as it might be."


But, Ms Penfold said, the increasing interest in "made to order" products presented a real opportunity for Birmingham's jewellers.


She added: "We are starting to see much more demand for bespoke products.


"People want to feel that, as a customer, they are getting something special made just for them or they have bought a limited edition.


"This trend is even emerging on the high street in shops such as Marks & Spencers where clothes will only be out in store for a week.


"It is certainly a growth area in the jewellery industry. Customers have become more design aware and they don't want to be seen wearing the same ring or broach as everybody else.


"Jewellery, particularly, has personal connotations to the buyer and commissioning gives them the sense that the product is special."


Since its opening in 1997, the JIIC has helped more than 300 individuals and businesses by introducing them to new technological developments, including rapid-prototyping and computer-aided design.


The centre works with businesses ranging in size from 25 employees to one-man bands.


Ms Penfold, who gained a masters degree at the Royal College of Art before joining UCE in 1992, said: "Design and technology should always go together. I don't think technology on its own is interesting - the design is absolutely vital, which is why we also have two designers working with us as part of the JIIC.


"But technology can help to keep a businesses competitive. This industry is very special, particularly in Birmingham. I witnessed the demise of silversmithing in Sheffield and I wouldn't want to see something similar happen here to the jewellery industry.


"The sector has got its challenges, in common with other industries such as leather.


"But there is hope and I hope we see the mass market subside slightly as more bespoke goods and unique pieces become popular."


As part of its anniversary the JIIC is holding a celebration of its work today and tomorrow at UCE's School of Jewellery.


The event will showcase the work of local designers, industry seminars and demonstrations of new technology.


Tomorrow will also see a seminar predicting jewellery fashions for 2008 from Paola de Luca of Italy's Trend Jewellery Forecasting.


Ms Penfold said: "We wanted our tenth anniversary celebrations to highlight the new products and commercial achievements of the companies that we have helped over the years. Our assistance has helped many to generate new sales and enter new markets, in addition many have won awards and acclaim."



http://icbirmingham.icnetwork.co.uk/birminghampost/business/tm_headline=a-shining-example-of-enterprise%26method=full%26objectid=19403580%26siteid=50002-name_page.html

Here are some pics of the demolition of parts of the Birmingham Mint site.

http://www.28dayslater.co.uk/forums/showthread.php?t=16395&highlight=birmingham

Am so glad this is going ahead,

who is the builder, there is absolutely nothing about this development on the web ?

the lift in the chimney sounds cool, I wonder if it will be commercial units and housing, as its a massive site

Taken from today's Mail.

Festival is a gem in city's heartJul 16 2007
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::
By Lee Kenny, Birmingham Mail

ORGANISERS of Birmingham Jewellery Quarter's first ever arts fair declared it was a sparkling success as thousands of visitors flocked to the event.

The Arts and Designer Craft Festival was held on Saturday and boasted a range of activities and demonstrations, all showcasing the wealth of talent based in Hockley.

Events were staged at The Big Peg and at St Paul's Square as crowds enjoyed live music, food stalls and the chance to see the very latest designs.

Birmingham's world famous Jewellery Quarter plays host to a vibrant art scene with more than 50 contemporary designers and four galleries.

The aim of the event was to attract families as well as serious collectors with activities including a Harry Potter competition at the Pen Museum and free vintage bus rides featuring the 1957 Flights Coach which took Villa to Wembley that year.


Organiser Anna Gibson said: "It was great, we had a steady stream of people all day."

the builder for Mint is Elmondstone. They do a good line in restoration so I believe.

the builder for Mint is Elmondstone. They do a good line in restoration so I believe.

cheers Bio

does anyone know whats being built at Legge Lane ?

Cheers

You mean this?

http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o220/Ermolenko/DSCF0648.jpg

No idea!

Sign across the road ...
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o220/Ermolenko/DSCF0649.jpg

College of Food and Tourism site.
http://i121.photobucket.com/albums/o220/Ermolenko/DSCF0647.jpg

The Banner Homes websites says that they have brought the Dodd Homes sites including Legge Lane:
COMING SOON ... Seventy eight one and two bedroom apartments, no piccies though.

The other building is an extension to the Argent Centre:
http://www.prince-warnes.com/properties_argent.htm

Planning App:

C/04390/07/FUL

Date application received
18/07/2007

Date application registered
18/07/2007

Status
Awaiting PP/Cons Exp

Location
Carver Street/Pope Street, land at, Jewellery Quarter, Hockley, Birmingham,

Proposal
Erection of 4-storey building, containing 6 commercial units with 30 residential apartments above

Consultation details
Consultations Help

Start date
18/07/2007

End date
22/08/2007

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b141/Feltip/Carverpope.jpg

Does the application include the pub?

Oh, thanks for that - that is definately new to me. The pub may not be included in that planning application but surely it wouldn't stay derelict with so much new building going on around it?

Its not very exciting to report but looks like council selling small plot of land in Jewellery Quarter which might be a plot worth developing into something at some point such as apartments.

http://80.86.36.120/vault/XDDocStore_7/0225910_public%20report%20Caroline.pdf

SALE OF LAND AT 56/57 CAROLINE STREET, HOCKLEY

Application number: C/03378/07/FUL

Date application received: 04/06/2007
Date application registered: 07/06/2007

Status: Defer for Sect 106

Location: Warstone Lane / Carver Street, Hockley, Birmingham - land to corner of,

Proposal: Alterations to block A (as approved under ref C/04357/04/FUL & C/07105/05/FUL) to allow number of apartments to be increased from 49 to 61 and enlargement of basement car park to increase number of spaces from 60 to 76

Applicant name and address:
Morris Homes West Midlands
Delta House
Pendeford Business PArk
Wobaston Road
Wolverhampton
WV9 5HA

Agent name and address:
I D Partnership
6 Queen Victoria Road
Coventry
CV1 3JH

Council decision: Under consideration
Decision date: n/a
Start date: 07/06/2007
End date: 11/07/2007

Decision will be made on August 9.

End of the line for historic silversmithsAug 8 2007
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

By Rhona Ganguly

Visitors to JW Evans & Sons Ltd in the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter would be forgiven for thinking they have stepped back in time.

Neither the original dies nor the machinery belonging to the turn-of-the-century silversmiths in Albion Street, Hockley, have been altered in decades.

But it seems the hidden city gem - the perfect location for a working museum to celebrate Birmingham's declining silver industry - is about to be lost forever.

Click below for article and pics.
http://icbirmingham.icnetwork.co.uk/birminghampost/news/tm_headline=end-of-the-line-for-historic-silversmiths%26method=full%26objectid=19588881%26siteid=50002-name_page.html

I'm a little confused. Is this a museum or still a factory?

I get the idea it's a factory.:dunno:

It was on Midlands Today. This is a factory :yes:.

I am not arsed about the workshop being kept in its present location, but surely the Museum of the JQ, or the Pen Museum, or the Coffin Museum could take ownership of the bits?

Planning Committee report for 23rd august online now:
http://80.86.36.120/vault/XDDocStore_7/0226794_Committee%20Report%20Pemberton%20St,land%20fronting%20The%20Birmingham%20Mint.C0295007FUL.pdf

Pemberton Street,Land fronting The Birmingham Mint,Hockley,Birmingham
Erection of 3 storey apartment block for 10 no. 2 bed units and 2 no. 1 bed units, with associated parking and landscaping.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1087/1149360311_0f59300ebb_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1052/1150431681_b92590eb16_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1422/1150431697_d1b9d4e205_o.jpg

Excellent pics there mate

St Georges welcomes first occupierSep 6 2007
::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::



Chord Deeley has signed its first occupier at St Georges - the £160 million mixed-use scheme in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter.

A £15 million Ramada Encore hotel - the first in Birmingham - is to be developed on the corner of Icknield Street and Pope Street by joint venture partners Alfred McAlpine and New World Leisure, who have agreed to acquire a prominent site in the first phase of the development.

The proposed boutique-style budget hotel, which has been submitted for planning permission, will comprise 151 bedrooms housed in a 62,828 sq ft building. A new 237-space multi-storey car park is planned next door.

St Georges is one of the biggest regeneration sites in Birmingham.

The 6.8 acre site, bounded by Icknield Street, Camden Street and Carver Street, and incorporating Pope Street and Moreton Street, will create a prominent new gateway at the currently run-down Icknield Street entrance to the Jewellery Quarter.

More than 720 homes, offices, two hotels, a multi-storey car park and retail and leisure space are planned, creating a total of 1,500 jobs, including 45 at the Ramada Encore.


Tim Hurdiss, director at Chord Deeley, said: "The signing of the Ramada Encore gets the St George's scheme off to a flying start. They are a superb anchor for the site and will undoubtedly be a draw to other occupiers.


"Birmingham as a whole, and the Jewellery Quarter in particular, is 'underhoteled'. The Ramada Encore will be a welcome addition to the city skyline."


Alfred McAlpine and hotel operator New World Leisure have an agreement with Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, owner of the Ramada brand, to build ten Ramada Encore hotels around the UK, in addition to other Wyndham-owned hotel brands. The Birmingham operation is planned to be the eighth Ramada Encore hotel in this development programme.


Mark Wright, development director at Alfred McAlpine, said: "Birmingham city centre has been on our hit-list for some time, but finding the right site has been challenging.


The St Georges scheme enjoys a great location on the outer ring road in an area crying out for a quality hotel. We hope to commence construction in spring 2008, with the hotel opening the following year."


Once planning permission is granted, the Ramada Encore will be part of the first phase of development at the St Georges scheme.


The second phase will see the conversion of the Kettleworks, the former Swan kitchenware factory on Icknield Street, into 234 apartments and 12,700 sq ft of commercial space.


The St Georges scheme is a joint venture by Chord Developments and Deeley Properties. Jewellery Quarter specialists Chord, based in St Paul's Square, has more than £75 million of


development under way or in the pipeline in the area. Deeley Properties, part of the award-winning Deeley Group headquartered in Coventry, has current projects in Coventry, Southampton, Oxfordshire, Buckingham and Bristol.


Retail agents Wright Silverwood advised Chord Deeley on the land sale to Alfred McAlpine/New World Leisure.

An interesting proposal by Mark Humphries (of Millennium, Amazon, Sherborne & Ludgate Lofts fame) that has now been withdrawn (not sure why) nice subtle design by Bryant Priest Newman though:

C/04911/07/FUL
Caroline Street, Ashfield Motors, Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham, B3 1UG
Demolition of existing petrol filling station and erection of a 4 storey office building with basement car parking

An interesting proposal by Mark Humphries (of Millennium, Amazon, Sherborne & Ludgate Lofts fame) that has now been withdrawn (not sure why) nice subtle design by Bryant Priest Newman though:


I love those developments. Shame this recent one was withdrawn lets hope it gets resubmited soon.

I think its a shame that mark Humphries never made it big in the same way a as say Urban Splash etc. He pioneered loft living in the city a long time ago but he never quite got the critical mass to hit it big. He last development was some B1 units in Bromsgrove which seem a bit of a come down

Indicative of how well things are going for the city at the moment - a £160 million development almost slipping in under the radar. Not heard anything from St. Georges in a good while.

Good news.

We're just waiting for them to start :happy:

The new building on Frederick St/Newhall Hill looks very nice - nearly complete. Classic design well executed. They have left the gable end blank (no windows) overlooking the Gurdwara car park so that will soon be developed I shouldn't wonder.

I went on an expedition around the Jewellery Quarter and the general area today.
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0020-1.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0021.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0022-1.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0030-1.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0031.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0033.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0034.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0036.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0037-1.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0056.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0070.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0071.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0072.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0073.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0076.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0077-1.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0079.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0083.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0085.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0087.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0088.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0089.jpg
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0090.jpg

Thanks for the photos Erebus. It's been a while since we've had a big photo update.

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0036.jpg

Is that a car park? It looks alright anyway.

Yep, it's an NCP one. Probably the funkiest one I've ever seen in Brum!

^^ any news here

A couple more of MCD's Derwent Foundry development I'd been meaning to post for a while
http://www.mcdproperty.com/dev10012.asp

http://i1.tinypic.com/7xacu85.jpg

http://i17.tinypic.com/71eu4uv.jpg

What a fantastic thread - with some great photos - covering one of Birmingham's most intriguing quarters. The Jewellery Quarter is a Jem - again, (as many forumers have stated in the past when using the same wording) no pun intended - that we should all be proud of. If you've got a spare fifteen minutes, and you haven't done so already, I recommend reading through this thread from page 1. I just have and it's put me in the mood to go round again and take more photos of the area though I'll probably wait till it gets a bit warmer:)

The dereliction in the area is sad but many of the buildings look like they could be saved and the ones that are beyond that will, at least, be prime sites for future, quality developments.

Loved this photo by Erebus
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0088.jpg

....and we all love this facade
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0087.jpg

And in total contrast: what a fantastic looking car park!
http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0036.jpg

http://i34.photobucket.com/albums/d101/Erebus555/Birmingham%202007/DSC_0036.jpg

This reminds me of Hub near five ways, only the carpark actually looks better than it, lol :runaway:

That carpark looks very similar to the ones at Warwick University, they have vertical white lines all over them, and those ones look pretty Ok, better than some of the University's main buildings!

All go for Jewellery Quarter.

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b141/Feltip/JewKettle.jpg

that st Georges?

Yep, all we need are full planning applications :)

Slightly off topic but not really

I was in Rackhams during the sales and ended up looking at the expensive pens while Mrs Foxtrot spent an age deciding which bag to not to buy.

After poring over them for a while I asked a helpful shop assistant if any were made in our illustrious city. To my slight surprise she pointed in me the direction of Yard-O-Led (http://www.filofax.co.uk/yardoled/SEURLF/ASP/SFS/SFE/yardoled_heritage.htm) and low and behold an anchor hallmark :happy:

I can't justify spending £200 on a pen but they're about as good as it gets and the company's based here too. So maybe next Christmas.

They're based on Spencer Street and here's a bit about their history (http://www.joonpens.com/upload/Yard-O-Led_history.php)

I'd never heard of them before but it goes to show that other high end handmade luxury goods are coming out of the Jewellery Quarter.

Lovely stuff, I wonder if they have a trade counter ;)

http://www.filofax.co.uk/images/yol/ranges/image_family_corinthian.jpg
http://www.thewritingdesk.co.uk/yardoled/retro_fp01.jpg
http://www.thewritingdesk.co.uk/yardoled/vg_vict_fp.jpg

It might be worth checking out the Pen Room (?) in the Great Western Arcade. They have more pens on offer there and have good expertise when it comes to pens! :yes:

http://www.filofax.co.uk/images/yol/ranges/image_family_corinthian.jpg


If I do ever spend £200 on a pen, it'd probably be something like this chappy. Very nice :yes:

I heard on Radio WM that this had been granted and the project value if I recall correctly was £150m. It was either the Civic or Victorian society - can't remember which - but they weren't happy about the back to backs going.

http://i3.tinypic.com/82xcpac.jpg

http://i8.tinypic.com/7whudcz.jpg

£160m plan for Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter
Jan 4 2008

A MAJOR £160 million hotel, office, flats, bars and workshop complex in the Jewellery Quarter has been backed by city planners.

But the decision means that a row of back-to-back houses will be demolished to make way for the new building despite pleas from conservationists.

The council's planning committee decided that the houses, numbers 111-120 Icknield Street, have no historical merit and should be bulldozed.

Both English Heritage and the Victorian Society have called for their restoration as part of the regeneration of the St George's site.

Committee member Coun Peter Douglas Osborn (Con, Weoley) said: "In an ideal world we would look to see these back-to-backs retained.

"But having looked at the site and their present condition it would be impossible to restore them."

He instead praised the developers Chord Deeley for restoring the historic layout of the site in the six block development as an excellent "fall back position".

It means that the building of 695 studio, one and two bedroom flats, two hotels, offices, shops, bars and a multi-storey car park can now go ahead.

Director of regeneration Clive Dutton said: "This will provide a huge boost for this part of the Jewellery Quarter."

http://icbirmingham.icnetwork.co.uk/mail/2008/01/04/160m-plan-for-birmingham-s-jewellery-quarter-97319-20314242/

To go with our beautiful pens, more work and therefore prestige for the Assay Office in a London office.


UK: SafeGuard Jewellery Valuations Available in Hatton Garden
By Press Release Posted: 01/08/08 12:54

RAPAPORT... SafeGuard Jewellery Valuations, a division of The Birmingham Assay Office, are now offering a trade valuation service in Hatton Garden. The UK’s largest provider of independent, expert jewellery and watch valuations appointed valuer Steven Jordan, FGA DGA, who will be based in the AnchorCert Gemmological Office, also operated by The Birmingham Assay Office, at 88-90 Hatton Garden.

With Steven’s appointment, a drop-off SafeGuard Valuation Service is now available in London, with most Valuations being available for collection within a week. Non-account customers with occasional items for Valuation can pay by credit card or cash.


http://www.diamonds.net/news/NewsItem.aspx?ArticleID=20222

The Birmingham Post reported today that Birmingham College of Food and Tourism as bought a 2 acre site on George St to build a further campus to increase its numbers so it can apply for university status. The jewellry quarter will be pleasantly buzzing in a few years time:)

Good stuff guys :)

Great find Foxy "Yard-o-led" - great name too.

http://www.locatebirmingham.com/news_and_media/news/2008/01/08

The quotes from the council in the icBirmingham article are a little worrying. I think its essential the character of both the jewellry qtr and digbeth are retained, as they have fortuitously been so far prob due to neglect. It would be reassuring if the council and conservationists agreed more often. Basically we will get a load of offices and flats and a car park, much like any other part of any other city. It might be OK but the developments need to be really good quality.

This is what Victorian society lot say http://www.victorian-society-bham.org.uk/casework.html

Its a v interestign test case isnt it. I dont hold out too much hope for it reflecting the character of the area. But is there an economically viable way of restoring the current buildings? JQ does need a hotel but could Ramada restore some adjacent old factory buildings, link them use that as a really funky hotel for example? Needs some imagination applying to Digbeth/JQ or we will end up with more business parks. Leeds is interestign comparison, old industrial areas flattened etc near Royal Armouries, huge nos of new apartments etc much more than Brum, but it really is a bit soulless

Thanks for the links .

http://www.locatebirmingham.com/news_and_media/news/2008/01/08

The quotes from the council in the icBirmingham article are a little worrying. I think its essential the character of both the jewellry qtr and digbeth are retained, as they have fortuitously been so far prob due to neglect. It would be reassuring if the council and conservationists agreed more often. Basically we will get a load of offices and flats and a car park, much like any other part of any other city. It might be OK but the developments need to be really good quality.

This is what Victorian society lot say http://www.victorian-society-bham.org.uk/casework.html

Its a v interestign test case isnt it. I dont hold out too much hope for it reflecting the character of the area. But is there an economically viable way of restoring the current buildings? JQ does need a hotel but could Ramada restore some adjacent old factory buildings, link them use that as a really funky hotel for example? Needs some imagination applying to Digbeth/JQ or we will end up with more business parks. Leeds is interestign comparison, old industrial areas flattened etc near Royal Armouries, huge nos of new apartments etc much more than Brum, but it really is a bit soulless

I can see your fear, but bearing in mind the JQ is a conservation area I would have thought it is in fairly safe hands. One of the reasons why St Georges is such a large and far-reaching scheme is that this is the arse-end of the JQ and there is very little of architectural merit in this area. What is interesting (like the old Swan/Bulpits works) is being kept. Most of what is new is going to replace dross - cheap 1960's factories and warehousing.

But I agree - where possible old housing, industrial buildings should be retained and converted. FWIW I think the Ramada looks pretty good - modern but with an industrial feel :)

i think this scheme fits in well with the area, esp with the extension of tenby(?) street.... but alas shame about the loss of the 3/4 backs!

Interesting stuff, I will have to go out and take some photos before they vanish :ohno:

Here we have the solution for two large towers for the Great Charles St site . Imagine these lovelies in building form .This would keep everyone happy.
:)



http://www.filofax.co.uk/images/yol/ranges/image_family_corinthian.jpg

:)

When I scrolled down I saw the top of them and actually thought it was a tower, lol. I was so excited until I realised it was a pen.

:lol: That's brilliant, a pen-shaped tower - love it!

Had a look down there today. Most of it isnt great agreed. Would be struggling to think of a use for the back to backs esp as they front onto Icknield St. Top of Pope St I thought most interesting bit and that seems to be unaffected anyway. Theres a nice old boozer there which would be good to see renovated. The George and Dragon (?) I took some photos but unfortunately am in luddite mode and cant seem to upload em.
Hope the new build is of good quality and should improve the area alright

Aah pictures of the George and Dragon by me on the previous page. I wrote a blog entry about the building as well: http://expbirmingham.wordpress.com/2007/10/24/the-george-dragon/

Nice pictures, v nice blog Erebus. Will check out that site didnt know about it. Thanks. I agree with you on the facades issue. Assuming the JQ takes off I would have thought a future for this place as a proper pub is possible, as per some of old pubs near Mailbox which seem to have had a new lease of life following redevelopment there

Well, the pub is listed. Hopefully something can be found for it before it deteriorates into a state where it can't be repaired.

Well, the pub is listed. Hopefully something can be found for it before it deteriorates into a state where it can't be repaired.

There were some council workman doing some hasty repairs (well, knocking glass out of frames) the other day and left a notice basically saying that if you are the owner 'get yer finger out and do something about this building!'

JEWELLERY QUARTER “WORLD HERITAGE” BID
17-01-2008

Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter could soon take its place alongside Stonehenge, the Taj Mahal, the Eiffel and Tower and the Statue of Liberty – by being named a World Heritage Site.

City Council cabinet members will meet this time next week to approve a bid for the status which will then be passed to the government for approval. If they give the thumbs up, the final decision will be made by UNESCO – the United Nations Educational, Scientific And Cultural Organisation.

There are 851 World Heritage Sites, so it’s not quite as exclusive a club as it first might appear – and while the Jewellery Quarter might not be as beautiful as some of its rivals, it does have a decent claim.

Production started there more than 250 years ago, and it remains the largest centre for jewellery production in Europe, with more than 1,200 businesses. There are growing presures for residential development, though, in spite of a conservation agreement with the City Council.

Marie Haddleton of the Jewellery Quarter Association welcomed the news, saying, “It’s going to need a lot of work, but we’re all for it. We’ve got our fingers crossed.”

She cautioned, though, that it might need more investment to make it a booming attraction. Although the Quarter has two museums – one of the jewellery, the other celebrating the history of the pen, Haddleton admitted, “I’m not sure we’ve got enough to keep the tourists here.

“We need more help from Advantage West Midlands.”

The area has already been identified by English Heritage as an historic industrial area of European importance, and Birmingham’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration Neville Sumerfield commented, “Being designated a World Heritage Site would bring significant kudos and benefits to both the Jewellery Quarter itself and also the wider city of Birmingham.

“The resulting profile and recognition on the international stage would provide not only a huge boost to tourism, but also inward investment and the further conservation and regeneration of this historic part of our city.”

http://www.thestirrer.co.uk/jewellery-quarter-1701081.html

Seems a generally good idea - hopefully this wont have any serious ramifications for redevelopment in the area, or for that matter the physcial expansion of exisiting businesses there. There are parts of the JQ that just dont need saving despite the heritage of the area.

I don't think it's a good idea. If it actually gets the title, we could see some big effects on the development in the area. You can rule out a skyscraper on GCS for starters.

I dont think there were any prospects of that happening anyway were there?

Well, by skyscraper, I mean highrise really. :)

I guess this classes as Jewellery Quarter. Just on corner of Summer Hill


Application number
C/00159/08/FUL

Date application received
11/01/2008

Date application registered
11/01/2008

Status
Under Consultation

Location
Camden Street/Sloane Street, corner of, Summer Hill, Birmingham, B1 3QJ

Proposal
Erection of multi-storey car park with ground floor retail unit and vehicle washing facilities


http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b141/Feltip/Planning%20Images/camdencar.jpg

That's for the BMW dealership! Interesting little car park :)

I think the World Heritage thing would be a good thing for the JQ but as long as they didn't stifle development. There is scope to remove a lot of dross (building-wise) from the area, which can only be a good thing :)

I don't think it's a good idea. If it actually gets the title, we could see some big effects on the development in the area. You can rule out a skyscraper on GCS for starters.


But it doesnt look likely that we'll get a skyscraper on Great Charles Street anyway. Perhaps the best locations for these would be the Broad Street / Suffolk Street axis to the west and the Snow Hill / St Chads / Lancaster Circus axis to the north. To have the whole JQ area listed and declared a world heritage site could be interesting though. We have here a pretty dense collection of period victorian buildings of modest size but rich in historical merit, of which around half are sadly in a rather dilapidated and poorly maintained state.

If money had been found and developers precured to redevelop these and have them all fully occupied a decade ago, goodness only knows how lucrative the whole area would be right now. The potential has always been there, its just its taken a little longer than usual for proposals for their redeployment to come to fruit.

I love wandering around this area just contemplating on the tumbledown nature of some of these streets, and when you look at the city prospect from this north western directiion it's actually quite unusual - this vista of small terractotta and fanciful architecture serving as an apron for the hi rise clusters that loom behind them.

a similiar application was turned down ten years ago, its another government inspired 'competition' for forwarding to the UN

don't hold your breath ! but I hope I get to eat my words and my hat

It appears from today's post article there would be quite a fight with other UK locations for the UK nomination.


Heritage status call for Jewellery Quarter
Jan 18 2008

By Tom Scotney


Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter should be listed along with monuments like the Pyramids, the Great Wall of China and the Statue of Liberty, a council report has recommended.

The planning report says the historic district should be recommended to the Government as a potential candidate for a World Heritage Site.

It would join a list that includes the likes of Stonehenge and the Tower of London as the most important historical sites in the country.

The report, to be discussed by Birmingham City Council's planning committee on Thursday, said giving the area World Heritage status would bring international attention, as well as attracting investment and increasing tourism.

The move is supported by Lord Mayor Randall Brew, the Birmingham Chamber of Commerce, as well as senior figures in the council.

Councillor Neville Summerfield, cabinet member for regeneration, said: "It would bring significant kudos and benefits to both the Jewellery Quarter and the wider city of Birmingham.

"The resulting profile and recognition on the international stage would provide not only a huge boost to tourism, but also inward investment and the further conservation and regeneration of this historic part of our city."

The Jewellery Quarter dates back more than 250 years, and is the largest active centre for jewellery production in Europe. It is still home to many businesses established in the 1800s, as well as the world's oldest assay office.

More than 1,200 creative businesses, and at least 100 designers operate out of the district. During the golden age of the district, more than 60,000 people were employed in its bustling jewellery industry.


In 1824 the Birmingham Assay Office was given the first licence to hallmark precious metals, after gold rushes in Australia and the US led to an increased demand for jewellery.


In the 1970s the district remodelled itself as a retail area, with shops springing up to cater for customers looking to buy their jewellery direct from the source. It is now also the site of blocks of city living apartments.


The district was identified by English Heritage as a historic industrial area of European importance in 1999, and it has been designated a Conservation Area by the City Council.


If it was created a World Heritage Site it would be one of the only ones still in operation, with the majority being sites of historical importance.


The extra money created by naming it a World Heritage Site would be a huge boon to the city, the Chamber of Commerce said.


Charlotte Ritchie, head of policy at at the Chamber, said: "The Jewellery Quarter is a national treasure and fully deserves to become a World Heritage Site. It is one of the birthplaces of the industrial revolution and to this day manufactures works that are the envy of the world. Other World Heritage Sites in Britain, such as Liverpool, Bath and Durham have benefited hugely from an influx of additional tourists and if Birmingham joins this list it will be worth millions of pounds to the local economy as well as raising the profile of the city and its industrial heritage around the world."


World Heritage Sites are designated by UNESCO (The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation) after nomination by governments. Currently there are 851 sites across the world.


The World Heritage programme was created to identify and protect important sites of global cultural or national value. If backed by the committee next week, the proposal will go before a full meeting of the council before being submitted to the Government.


The Department of Culture, Media and Sport, advised by English Heritage, is responsible for submitting formal bids for World Heritage Status to UNESCO.


If a Jewellery Quarter bid is recommended by Birmingham City Council, it would face a battle with Shake-speare's Stratford, along with Chatham Dockyard, Kent, the Lake District, the New Forest, and about a dozen other sites to get the UK nomination.

http://icbirmingham.icnetwork.co.uk/birminghampost/news/tm_headline=heritage-status-call-for-jewellery-quarter%26method=full%26objectid=20366700%26siteid=50002-name_page.html

a similiar application was turned down ten years ago, its another government inspired 'competition' for forwarding to the UN

don't hold your breath ! but I hope I get to eat my words and my hat

Sadly I agree. I apologise for sounding cynical, but if the decision is going to be made by the government, there's a bloody good chance we'll be overlooked :(

Here the full list of candidates from 1999 England
http://icomos-uk.org/whs/nominations/

England

Chatham Naval Dockyard
Chatham Dockyard is the supreme example of a Royal dockyard largely unaltered from the age of sail, at a period when the Royal Navy was instrumental in Britain's global influence and when, before the full impact of the Industrial Revolution, dockyards were the largest industrial centres in Europe.

Darwin's Home and Workplace: Down House and Environs
Down House was Charles Darwin's home from 1842 until his death in 1882. Here he studied, thought and wrote his great influential works including The Origin of Species. The grounds and surrounding landscape provided much of the inspiration for his revolutionary insights of the natural world, ecology and bio-diversity, which continue to have significant influence today.

The Lake District
The Lake District is outstandingly beautiful. It possesses a unique combination of spectacular mountains and rugged fells, pastoral and wooded valleys, and numerous lakes, tarns and rivers. The character of the area is inseparable form its cultural history, and the personalities, life styles and traditions of the Lake District people. Each valley has its own individuality, and the resulting diversity of the landscape contributes enormously to the quality of the area as a whole.

Manchester and Salford (Ancoats, Castlefield and Worsley)
Manchester is the archetype city of the Industrial Revolution. It witnessed the creation of Britain's first industrial 'true' canal. Britain's first mainline, inter-city passenger railway and the country's first industrial suburb based on steam power; it is on these three themes that the proposed World Heritage Site designation concentrates. Thus the city centre itself, which is arguably the finest expression of a Victorian commercial district in England, complements the present nomination but is not included within the boundary of the proposed site.

Monkwearmouth and Jarrow Monastic Sites
The twin Saxon monasteries at Wearmouth and Jarrow - 'one monastery in two places' - were the creation of one man, Benedict Biscop, who had travelled abroad (to Rome and elsewhere) in the 650s and had returned determined to build a monastery 'in the Roman manner'. The historian Bede was a member of the community from the age of seven, having been entrusted to Benedict Biscop c. 680.

The New Forest
The New Forest is an area of outstanding wildlife and landscape interest fashioned by human intervention and use over thousands of years. It extends to about 580 square kilometres, based on the New Forest Heritage Area boundary. The human processes that have shaped the landscape over time are well demonstrated by the rich archaeological heritage, particularly from the Bronze Age and Roman period, and a documented history going back to the 11th century. An extensive dispersed pastoral system is still practised today over a large part of the area. The landscapes and habitats themselves also provide an important testimony to this interaction.

The Great Western Railway: Paddington-Bristol (selected parts)
The Great Western Railway between London and Bristol was authorised by Parliament in 1835, and was opened in stages from both ends from 1838 onwards. The detail of its construction was entirely the conception of Isamabard Kingdom Brunel and was to be, in his own words, 'the finest work in the kingdom'. It was opened throughout 1841 with the completion of the Box Tunnel, the greatest engineering feat of early railway construction. Built to Brunel's broad gauge of seven foot, its engineering works achieved a grandeur at that time unmatched elsewhere in the country and, as they were suited to high speed running, most of these structures have survived and are in daily use.

Shakespeare's Stratford
The names of Stratford and Shakespeare are synonymous throughout the world. The writer who has exerted the greatest global influence was intimately connected with the town throughout his life. Stratford was where he was born, brought up, went to school, met his wife and baptised his children; it was also the place where he invested most of his theatrical earnings, maintained his family, retired and died. Many influences of Stratford and its outlying countryside have been traced in Shakespeare's writings, and a significant number of the surviving Shakespeare documents relate to his business and family affairs in Stratford.

The Wash and North Norfolk Coast
The Wash and North Norfolk Coast is an area of international nature conservation importance comprising an area of some 70,000 hectares. It is designated a Ramsar site under the Convention on Wetlands of International Importance especially as a Waterfowl Habitat (Ramsar Convention). It is also a Special Protection Area under the Council Directive on the Conservation of Wild Birds (79/409/EEC), and is a candidate Special Area of Conservation under the Council Directive on the Conservation of Natural Habitats and Wild Fauna and Flora (92/43/EEC). Parts of the North Norfolk coast are also a Biosphere Reserve designated under the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB).

Scotland

The Cairngorm Mountains
The Cairngorm Mountains comprise the largest continuous area of high ground above 1,000m in Britain and include most of the highest summits in Scotland. These mountains, with their distinctive plateau surfaces and glacially sculptured features, are surrounded by open moorland and glens. The climate reflects a unique combination of oceanic and continental influences, characterised by wet and windy conditions rather than extreme cold. The diversity of landforms present in the Cairngorms provides exceptional insights into long-term processes of mountain landscape evolution and environmental change in a maritime, mid-latitude setting in the northern hemisphere. This geomorphological development spans the latter part of the Tertiary period with its warm humid climate, through the ice ages of the last 2.5 million years, to the present day.

The Flow Country
These peatlands are possibly the largest single area of blanket bog in the world. Together with associated areas of moorland and open water they are of international importance for conservation both as a habitat in their own right and because they support a diverse range of rare and unusual breeding birds.

The Forth Rail Bridge
The Forth Rail Bridge, which was opened in 1890, is an internationally recognised symbol of the achievements of late 19th century engineering. Its robust and original design took account of the lessons on the effect of wind on exposed bridges learned from the Tay Bridge disaster of 1879. It was the first major steel bridge in Europe. It is certainly the best known Rail Bridge in the world, and one of the most renowned civil engineering feats of all time.

Wales

Pont-Cysyllte Aqueduct
Pont-Cysyllte Aqueduct is one of the world's most renowned and spectacular achievements of waterways engineering. Built as apart of the improvement of transport to provide the arteries of industrialisation, the structure was a pioneer of cast iron construction and was the highest canal aqueduct ever built. As such, it is one of the heroic monuments which symbolise the world's first Industrial Revolution and its transformation of technology.

Northern Ireland

Mount Stewart gardens
Mount Stewart is one of the most spectacular and idiosyncratic gardens of Western Europe and universally renowned for the 'extraordinary scope of its plant collections and the originality of its features which give it world-class status'. It was created within and old demesne on the shores of Strangford Lough, whose fine parkland trees and shelter belts were established for the 1782-83 house. A celebrated garden building, the Temple of the Winds, was added to the parkland in 1782-83 and the house was enlarged to the designs of Dance in 1804, and by Morrison in the late 1830s.

Overseas Territories

Fountain Cavern, Anguilla
The Fountain Cavern is one of 19 Indian sites identified by an archaeological survey in 1979. Of the 19 sites, following extensive scientific studies, the Fountain Cavern is considered to be the most important archaeological site on the island. The historical significance of the site to Anguilla and the region has led to the decision by the Government of Anguilla to develop a National Park with the Fountain Cavern as the focus. The other 18 sites will also form part of educational tours which centre around the National Park in order to provide a comprehensive overview of Amerindian culture in Anguilla and the region.

The Fortress of Gibraltar
The Rock of Gibraltar is one of the world's unique examples of a natural beacon and fortress which has been the focus, because of its geological and strategic position, of the attention of humans since the early days of prehistory. The Rock has long been the symbol of strength and stability and its singular geological makeup has permitted its use and defence by successive cultures. The Rock of Gibraltar, 6 kilometres long by 1 kilometre wide, has one of the highest densities of universal heritage in the world and for this reason it is the entire peninsular, the natural fortress, which is included in the proposed World Heritage site.

But it doesnt look likely that we'll get a skyscraper on Great Charles Street anyway. Perhaps the best locations for these would be the Broad Street / Suffolk Street axis to the west and the Snow Hill / St Chads / Lancaster Circus axis to the north. To have the whole JQ area listed and declared a world heritage site could be interesting though. We have here a pretty dense collection of period victorian buildings of modest size but rich in historical merit, of which around half are sadly in a rather dilapidated and poorly maintained state.

We could quite easily get a large building on the Great Charles Street site. Skyscraper, definitely not. I chose my wording poorly in that post. With a World Heritage Site designation, the site could be put in jeopardy. The UN are not going to designate a site a WHS when the surrounding area is changing the image of it.

If money had been found and developers precured to redevelop these and have them all fully occupied a decade ago, goodness only knows how lucrative the whole area would be right now. The potential has always been there, its just its taken a little longer than usual for proposals for their redeployment to come to fruit.

Well, a decade ago, the regeneration boom was only just starting. Our first city centre apartments only completed in 1995 (Symphony Court, Brindleyplace)! The area has only started to become popular in the way it is in the last 10 years. Back then, it was seen as a place to get cheap, yet high quality jewellery. Back then, city centre living was a very new concept. Back then, the Jewellery Quarter was more cut off from the city core than it is now! It's only been in the last five years or so that the potential has actually floated.

I remember as a kid going to the old science museum and it was such a way out and across busy roads. Now it's a hop skip and then roll down Newhall street.

Partly as you get older and things don't seem so large (cough) ;)

Had a wander through the JQ heading down from the train station, to St Pauls Square and into town. New and old stuff, and not too much as I was in one helluva rush - I'll edit with the locations later. I just want to get them up and go buy a kebab. I'm Hank Marvin.

Edited to the best of my ability - there's enough in the JQ to keep a photographer occupied for hours. Really loved walking round there, I should do it more often.

Unknown building - looking across Warstone Lane Cemetery from Vyse Street
http://i26.tinypic.com/fdzqcg.jpg

Corner Vyse St and Pitsford St
http://i26.tinypic.com/111utfl.jpg

The Chamberlain Clock on Warstone Lane
http://i32.tinypic.com/2e4esf9.jpg

Warstone Lane looking east from the clock.
http://i31.tinypic.com/246mgx1.jpg

Rose Villa Tavern with the Big Peg behind.
http://i25.tinypic.com/4r2el3.jpg

Corner of Regent St and Frederick St.
http://i27.tinypic.com/2uhydkn.jpg

Graham St.
http://i32.tinypic.com/2608vgw.jpg

New development on the corner of George St and Newhall St, opposite the Hub-like carpark.
http://i28.tinypic.com/293w1g0.jpg

Thanks for the pics - some good buildings there, old and new :)

Thanks for the photos .

Short video about thriving business in The Jewellery Quarter .

After clicking link , click Business Sparkle .
http://www.bbc.co.uk/midlandstoday/latest_stories/index.shtml

Key Hill Cemetary (the last resting place of many of the great and the good inc. Chamberlain, Kenrick, Horton, Dawson, Bird, Martineau) although in desperate need of repair.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2102/2219786406_ce878d2c2f.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2142/2218994021_053660c062.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2131/2219786052_06090bf080.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2053/2218993679_72753366b1.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2148/2219696390_2e34ec95e3.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2013/2218903379_3538e8b834.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2167/2219696902_8749b5804c.jpg

Lovely pics Feltip .Was it easy to find those specific graves ?

Key Hill Cemetary (the last resting place of many of the great and the good inc. Chamberlain, Kenrick, Horton, Dawson, Bird, Martineau) although in desperate need of repair.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2102/2219786406_ce878d2c2f.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2142/2218994021_053660c062.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2131/2219786052_06090bf080.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2053/2218993679_72753366b1.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2148/2219696390_2e34ec95e3.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2013/2218903379_3538e8b834.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2167/2219696902_8749b5804c.jpg

nice pics, my favourite part of the jewellery quarter, so secluded

Lovely pics Feltip .Was it easy to find those specific graves ?

Not really, I stumbled across Dawson and with Chamberlain I knew the grave from a flickr photo but stumbled across it too. Found the Kenrick's and knew he wanted to be buried near his family (despite being offered funeral at Westminster Abbey) and so thought as he married a Kenrick he must be nearby. I found a map online but would need to find the coordinates for the relevant people although Wikipedia seems to be helpful there.

If your after Chamberlain, this photo has his grave centred horizontally and vertically.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2013/2218903379_3538e8b834.jpg

Thanks for the info .

Not really, I stumbled across Dawson and with Chamberlain I knew the grave from a flickr photo but stumbled across it too. Found the Kenrick's and knew he wanted to be buried near his family (despite being offered funeral at Westminster Abbey) and so thought as he married a Kenrick he must be nearby. I found a map online but would need to find the coordinates for the relevant people although Wikipedia seems to be helpful there.

If your after Chamberlain, this photo has his grave centred horizontally and vertically.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2013/2218903379_3538e8b834.jpg

I bet he was spinning in there when they those cretins in the '60's were doing their best to destroy all he created!

A great man; he deserves better as his memorial. It should be better preserved by the councillors today who are not fit to polish his shoes let alone stand in them.

Are there any statues of him knocking about?

Are there any statues of him knocking about?

Not that I'm aware of!

Well, he does have a memorial fountain ;)

It would be good though to have more statues, some of which I think exist in the museum stores, for some of the great Birmingham forebears such as Mason, Watt, Martineau. The Watt one by the library could go near Thinktank or Snow Hill as a reflection on engineering.

He has a whole square actually, lol

Si monumentum requiris, circumspice.

Are there any statues of him knocking about?
The Chamberlain Clock Tower at Birmingham University too - he was the First Chancellor of the Uni and had a lot to do with its establishment and the magnificent original buildings there.

I too think there should be a traditional statue of the great man somewhere prominent in the city centre. The only 'personification' of him like this was at the front of the doomed 'Forward' statue in Centenary Square, leading all the other figures towards the ICC and Symphony Hall.

He is one of my heroes for everything he achieved while Mayor Of Birmingham, if only we had a man of his standing and vision in such a prominent position now...

Feltip, you're a dude, I went looking for his grave several years ago in that cemetery, but much to my disappointment couldn't find it after several hours of looking. Thrilled by your photo, will have to go back again, now I know what I'm looking for. Interesting, how understated his entry on the gravestone is.

Si monumentum requiris, circumspice.

Very true, his legacy is all around us.

Yeah. It's all the more touching for he could have had a state funeral at Westminster Abbey but instead wanted to be buried with his family in Birmingham, his adopted city.

And with that legacy was his creation of municipal socialism with gas, water, and sewerage in local ownership.

World Heritage site...

From Planning Apps


Application number
C/00338/08/FUL

Date application received
21/01/2008

Date application registered
25/01/2008

Status
Under Consultation

Location
51 Northwood Street, Hockley, Birmingham, B3 1UJ

Proposal
Mixed use development including commercial space, live/work units and 14 apartments

Consultation details
Consultations Help

Start date
25/01/2008

End date
20/02/2008


http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b141/Feltip/Planning%20Images/NorthwoodD.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b141/Feltip/Planning%20Images/NorthwoodC.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b141/Feltip/Planning%20Images/NorthwoodB.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b141/Feltip/Planning%20Images/NorthwoodA.jpg

Thanks for the information .

Jewellery Quarter is too residential, says food firmJan 31 2008


Birmingham Post Birmingham Post


A food business employing 125 people in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter is set to close - because the area is becoming more residential.

Bakkavor Birmingham, on Carver Street, makes dips, salad dressings, sauces and stir-fries.
http://icbirmingham.icnetwork.co.uk/birminghampost/2008/01/31/jewellery-quarter-is-too-residential-says-food-firm-65233-20419202/

Rather have residents then a food producer in the JEWELLERY QUARTER!!

Yes , I agree with that .

sounds like a lame excuse for consolidating in Nottingham, they will also have valuable land to sell now, if they own it !

new appartments at (i'm guessing) 46-60
Northwood St.

http://www.smartnewhomes.com/property/Details/1889209/Brand_New_Gladedale_Homes_Ltd_-_Home_Counties-Apartment-Coming_Soon_Artisan_Square_Jewellery_Quarter_Birmingham_West_Midlands.aspx

They are piling on the site at the mo.

Also Caroline Point - 62 Caroline St is now complete and some tennants have moved in.

http://www.strawberrydevelopments.com/caroline/index.htm

new appartments at (i'm guessing) 46-60
Northwood St.

http://www.smartnewhomes.com/property/Details/1889209/Brand_New_Gladedale_Homes_Ltd_-_Home_Counties-Apartment-Coming_Soon_Artisan_Square_Jewellery_Quarter_Birmingham_West_Midlands.aspx

They are piling on the site at the mo.



^^ ;)
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=18083931&postcount=219
Although that might be one next door as there seems to be a great mass of building around there at moment.

^^ ;)
http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showpost.php?p=18083931&postcount=219
Although that might be one next door as there seems to be a great mass of building around there at moment.

Thats a different one, it's directly opposite this.

51 Northwood St is currently occupied by Costain as a site office for St Pauls Place.

Rather have residents then a food producer in the JEWELLERY QUARTER!!

They've got two sites opposite each other on Carver St - not efficient at all. I would think the fork lift truck drivers have seen an enormous increase in traffic and it's only going to get worse.

I won't miss the regular deliveries from the vinegar truck ...

It's Ansty Court which is opposite. There's some visuals on page 6 of this thread

I also noticed the big corkscrew thing on the Birmingham Mint site while waiting at traffic lights

New venue in Jewellery Quarter, called Concrete.


About CONCRETE
Birmingham’s new super live-club and multipurpose venue CONCRETE opens its doors on Friday 1st February 2008.
CONCRETE is a 3,000 square feet multipurpose venue spread over two levels based in the Jewellery Quarter, Hockley, Birmingham. The venue morphs through the week from restaurant lounge bar to full on live music at the weekends, with strong club promoters, eclectic bands and internationally known artists appearing regularly.

The main level situated below The Big Peg, includes a live music venue, a 46-cover restaurant, two bars and two dance-floors, as well as numerous seating areas and a superb space for the corporate scene, while the entrance level above places a secondary seating area and a magnificent beer garden outside. The quarter-of-a-million development also includes the installation of a £50k KV2 sounds-system, the first to be ever used in the Midlands.

Breaking new boundaries and raising the bar in Birmingham,CONCRETE also opens on weekends with Thursday to Saturday events programmed by London and Midlands A-list promoters. February kicks off with Utah Saints, A-Skillz, Diverted LIVE,Mr No Hands and many others will join Ali B’s infamous night Air.Bigger than Barry promoters unite fashion, art and electro house at Cameltoe. The following Friday, goes in-house as CONCRETE Presents...the very best in breaks, broken beats, funk and alternative sounds. DJs vs VJs are the name of the game for Project X Presentsa one-off night called X-Lab:vl, whilst the last Friday of the month sees the arrival of CONCRETE’S in-house night featuring the very best in alternative sounds and special guests from every corner of the music community.

Starting on Thursday 7th, then fortnightly afterwards ex-Kerrang presenter Sean Scott (Galaxy) offers POPSCENE! an independent indi pop night featuring chart-topper Midas, Manchester based El Policia, West Midlands pop-punk band The Return and Kidnapper Bell.

Saturday monthly’s include Bugz in the Attic, I.G Culture, Bruce Q, UpRoc and The Politik LIVEwill serve broken beats and Nu Jazz at Co-Op. Norman Jay and guests take charge of CONCRETE Presents… Jim ‘Shaft’ Ryan, Jeff Jefferson and Lisa Millett LIVE and the fabulous Miss Moneypenny’s will bring a touch of international glamour and glitz to their night Twilight Trip-hop, Break-beat and Hip-Hop is next on the agenda as DJ Vadim from Ninja Tunes headlines Soundcrash; completing the line-up. During the rest of the week the club is available for third party promoters and private events.

Musical genres vary from night to night, with progressive house, electro, broken beats, hip hop, electro, Nu Jazz, breakbeat indi, rock and world music. Live bands as well as comedy nights, film, spoken word and Visual Arts shows will also be programmed throughout the year.

CONCRETE’S grand opening party, happens on Friday 1st February 2008 with breaks mainstays Ali B presents Air with Utah Saints, A-Skillz, Ali B, Diverted (Live), Mr No Hands and Janette Slack followed by Co-Op on Saturday 2nd February featuring Bugz in the Attic, I.G Culture, Bruce Q, UpRoc, The Politik Live and very special guests.


THE LAUNCH: FEBRUARY 2008

CONCRETE’S OPENING LAUNCH

Friday 1st February

www.concretebar.co.uk

"KV2 sounds-system" - sounds snazzy! What's Simonthesoundman's opinion on this? ;)

Thanks Feltip! :)

Don't know if there's a thread for The Mint, but this is one really big and complicated development. The piling has been going on for over three months and looks like they've just finished. Never seen any good renderings of this development, which should be really interesting with a rise of 50 ft at the back of the site.
This year should see some real changes at the Ickneild Road end of the jewellry quarter, with Morris's "the Quarter" next door about to start and St George's next to that.It will be great to see this derilict area coming back to life. :banana:

Do you have any information on 'The Quarter' development on Warstone Lane? Is it really going to start and what's been the frickin' hold up?

Positive editorial in today's Birmingham Post about the Jewellery Quarter and Birmingham in general .

will be having a butchers

Jewellery Quarter out to sparkle as last big firm leavesFeb 4 2008

By Tom Scotney


The regeneration of Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter has stopped it from becoming a post-industrial wasteland, officials have claimed.

Last week saw the virtual end of heavy industry in the Quarter after Icelandic food firm Bakkavor announced plans to close its site there. It said it was moving production away from the Carvery Street facility partly because of the increasing pressure of residential development.
http://icbirmingham.icnetwork.co.uk/birminghampost/news/tm_headline=jewellery-quarter-out-to-sparkle-as-last-big-firm-leaves%26method=full%26objectid=20433130%26siteid=65233-name_page.html

lol.... pathetic story

Do you have any information on 'The Quarter' development on Warstone Lane? Is it really going to start and what's been the frickin' hold up?
Not sure what the hold up has been due to, but the health centre part is down for opening in 2010.

This has been approved in planning.


Application number
C/06560/07/LBC

Date application received
26/10/2007

Date application registered
08/11/2007

Status
Decision Made

Location
158-159 Warstone Lane, Hockley, Birmingham, B18 6NZ

Proposal
Refurbishement of and alterations to premises for 9 9 family homes, 4 apartments, commercial premises.


http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b141/Feltip/Planning%20Images/Warstoneapp.jpg

Thanks for the info, nothing special however keeping the old feeling to the area.

i noticed spencer point had started construction as wates went bust ? wonder if anyone will take over the contract

Wates haven't gone bump have they??

I know Elmondstone have (they were doing Ansty Court and The Mint I think) but the sites have been taken over by other companies.

I thought Sapcote were building Spencer Point

That sounds familiar.

sorry i'm builder dyslexixs meant sapcote x

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v441/woodhousen/jq.jpg

How awful.

But thanks for the pic :)

it is published in a book i found at work called 'Our Birmingham' Cost = 1' and was published in 1943

IF you can find any other gems from the book I think we'd all appreciate seeing them, although sick buckets may be required ;)