Slab Design Union were commissioned by BG Projects to provide technical advisory services and input into the contractor’s deliverables. We worked alongside the design team to produce the interior base build and fit-out scope including partitions and ceilings, doors, raised access floors, WCs, showers and changing areas.
The ambitious plans are being brought forward by development company Digbeth Loc Limited, owned by Brydell Partners. Leading UK property developer Stanhope is acting as development manager and Peaky Blinders creator Steven Knight will be the asset manager.
Under the plans, Digbeth Loc Limited will convert the abandoned Grade II listed warehouse at Fazeley Street by the Grand Union Canal into a studio and filming area. The designs by Digbeth-based architecture practice BG Projects include a new modern extension which will reflect the original design of the historic warehouse, used for shipping in the 1800’s.
The film studio is the first step in a wider masterplan which will see the regeneration of the 20-acre Warwick Bar site into a thriving creative quarter including over 900 new homes. The studios are set to support 750 local jobs and are hoped will act as a catalyst for further regeneration in the area. The creation of the new Digbeth film studio comes as the BBC moves forward with plans to move their Birmingham HQ to Digbeth in a purpose-built broadcast centre which will be known as The Tea Factory.
The BBC and MasterChef producer Shine TV (part of Banijay UK) will commence filming at Digbeth Loc Studios. The ambition is for all MasterChef series to be filmed in Digbeth for the foreseeable future. Moving the MasterChef brand and its four titles to Birmingham is part of the BBC’s Across the UK strategy, getting closer to audiences to better reflect, represent and serve all parts of the UK.
The restoration of the Banana Warehouse secures an exciting future for a building that is a key historical asset. We are very pleased that this work will bring a major TV production to the heart of the West Midlands, creating unparalleled new opportunities, jobs and investment. It is a transformational achievement, and we look forward to continuing to work with our partners to realise the opportunities that Digbeth has to offer.
Client – BG Projects, Masterchef UK, BAM UK and Ireland
Type – Commercial, Refurbishment, Cultural, Worlplace
Location – Digbeth Loc, Birmingham, UK
Status – Built