Former rubber factory to become a creative hub in Birmingham

Work has begun on a £60m project to transform Birmingham’s 121-year-old Belmont Works factory into a new place for artists, academics and industry to collaborate on projects or business ideas. 

The factory will become home to Birmingham City University’s STEAMhouse initiative, which aims to drive innovative and economic growth by connecting different disciplines.

This centre will provide a platform for individuals and groups to collaborate alongside academic teaching.

Since the first phase of the STEAMhouse initiative opened in 2018, it has supported over 200 businesses with new research partnerships and it has invested more than £75,000 in financial support.

Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP) have funded the centre with £1m and the Department for Business Energy and Industrial Strategy have provided a further £14m.

Contractors Bowmer and Kirkland will carry out the work, which will include an extension and a full-scale reconstruction of the water tower.

Professor Julian Beer, the deputy vice-chancellor at Birmingham City University, said: ‘It is fantastic news that it is now full steam ahead in the transformation of this historic building which continues our regeneration in Birmingham’s Eastside.

‘This is the latest step in creating a real vibrant learning and creative quarter in this part of the city. This is not just about restoring an iconic part of Birmingham’s history but is about preparing the city for its future development by creating new businesses and collaborations which will underpin growth in our region.

‘This thinking has a key role to play in the development of our regional economy, and by providing free access to space, support and equipment we can play a transformational part in that journey.’

Chris Loughran, deputy chair for delivery at GBSLEP, said: ‘The transformation of derelict and unused sites such as this are fundamental to the ongoing regeneration of both the city and the wider region.

‘BCU’s impact on the city has demonstrated a clear vision in the reclaiming and reuse of brownfield sites for the development of our regional economy.’

Photo Credit – Pixabay