University’s flagship new home in heart of the city

The Birmingham real estate team assisted the University on its acquisition of a long term interest in the landmark listed former Municipal Bank. 

The University will restore the Grade II-listed building and turn it into a city centre showcase to display its research and host performances and exhibitions. 

Trevor Payne, director of estates at the University of Birmingham, said: "This is an exciting opportunity for the University of Birmingham to work with other public and private partners and play an important part in the redevelopment of the area whilst still preserving the heritage of the building. Working with Mills & Reeve has been great as their skill and experience in the real estate sector, and perhaps more importantly, their local knowledge of the city has meant that we were able to progress the project.” 

Christian Bull, partner for Mills & Reeve said: “The new site is adjacent to the exciting Arena Central redevelopment and complex negotiations were therefore needed with stakeholders including Birmingham City Council, HSBC Bank plc and Arena Central, not only in relation to the University's acquisition of the property but also regarding its access and use of the building. We are delighted that the University will have a new home in the heart of the city.”