Birmingham city centre 'gateway' plan revealed with scheme to transform landmark site

Two new skyscrapers - built with a cinema and gym - could replace the site if plans are given the green light

A developer has revealed plans to "transform" a landmark building in Birmingham. Sama Investment Group has submitted a planning application to redevelop 1 Lancaster Circus into two tower blocks for residents and students.

The brutalist building, located at the edge of Lancaster Circus Queensway and Lawson Street, was formerly used as an office by Birmimgham City Council workers. The skyscrapers would be 41-storeys and 48-storeys, respectively.

If plans were given the green light, a pavilion would also make up part of the site. It would act as a focal point for the development and allow residents and the public to circulate through the site more effectively, the developer said.

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Plans also include the delivery of amenities including a gym, spa, cinema and "active frontages which will create interest and activity at street level", said the developer. It added: "This will further harness ambitions for 1 Lancaster Circus to act as a new gateway from the Gun Quarter and Jewellery Quarter into Birmingham city centre."

Bilal Ahmed, executive chairman and founder at developer Sama, said: “Following a period of consultation, we’re delighted to submit plans for 1 Lancaster Circus. The proposals will transform an underutilised site to deliver a flagship scheme for the area and city.

“The proposals will deliver a mixed-use scheme of residential and much-needed student accommodation. It will support the continued growth of nearby universities, including Aston and Birmingham City University.

"Our plans will also help re-establish this location as a destination, offering street-level community uses and green space for residents and the wider community to enjoy - alongside a pedestrian corridor that will connect parts of the city to this area – something that has further been enhanced through the addition of a pavilion to the final plans.

“We look forward to continuing our progress with the city and our partners to deliver 1 Lancaster Circus in the coming years.”