Repairs delayed as city’s iconic landmark starts to look tired Rotunda is missing panes and panels
BIRMINGHAM’S most iconic building is starting to look a little shabby despite a major overhaul just over a decade ago.
The 20-storey Rotunda, originally designed to be offices but now apartments, is looking rather shabby with a number of windows boarded up.
The 266ft (81m) cylindrical building, designed by architect James Roberts and opened in 1965, has missing cladding, rust stains and condensation in its windows.
The Hrade II-listed landmark, which overlooks New Street and the Bullring, was refurbished and turned into flats by developers Urban Splash in May 2008.
But since then its apperance has gradually deteriorated, according to some. “Seeing the Rotunda as it is today really shocked me,” a passer-by told the Birmingham Post.
“The building, which is obviously high-profile in Birmingham, is frequently used to represent the city but it’s in a serious state of disrepair.”
Residential
Management
Group, which cares for the property, said repairs had been delayed due to lockdown.
“The safety and security of anyone living in or visiting the Rotunda is our number one priority,” a spokesman said. “A project manager has been appointed to ensure the damaged glazing panels, which are currently subject to an insurance claim, are replaced as soon as possible.
“Unfortunately, there have been some delays due to the lockdown measures, but we are working hard to move this forward as quickly as we can.” The Rotunda, which originally housed a bank and the Mulberry Bush pub, suffered the notorious IRA bombing in 1974 and was earmarked for demolition in 1993. English Heritage saved the building and it was granted Grade II-listed status in 2000.
The top floors have studio apartments and a two-bedroom penthouse suite with spectacular views of the city. The Rotunda, which won a Visit Britain Award in 2008, was celebrated following its 50th anniversary in September 2015.