Student halls plan for old metal works
A DERELICT Birmingham factory dating back to the 1850s is set for regeneration into student halls.
City planning chiefs are expected to approve the redevelopment this week of the old Brandauer Works plant, in New John Street West, which will see more than 300 bedrooms built.
The Grade II-listed building, is a familiar landmark to motorists on the middle ring road through Newtown. It was used by Brandauer Precision Pressings from 1862 until 2000 but has been derelict ever since.
Now, developer Uncles Properties is working with Jewellery Quarter practice Glancy Nicholls Architects to breathe new life into the building.
The project will see some demolition, renovation and the erection of two new blocks to create 308 bedrooms, comprising 169 studios and 25 shared flats, while a listed old boiler house will be converted into a café.
The accommodation will be privately run and the project team is currently in talks with a number of potential operators, according to a report prepared ahead of the city council’s planning committee meeting on Thursday.
It will most likely attract students attending Aston University, Birmingham City University, the School of Jewellery and University of Law – all of which are around a mile away.
Planning officers recommended that councillors approve the application.