Colmore Life - Autumn 2021 by Colmore Life

More than just business...

AUTUMN 2021

In this issue:

Christmas in Cathedral Square... who’s hosting a chalet

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Welcome After almost two years of digital magazines, I’m delighted to see that Colmore Life is back in print across the District. While digital is often more accessible, you really can’t beat picking up a copy of your favourite magazine from a train station, reception table or local coffee shop. To mark the return to print, this edition, as always, is full of fantastic features and the latest news. Over the past nine months we have been examining what the future of our business districts looks like and what role the office plays. In October, we hosted our first physical event in over 20 months, releasing the findings of this report, which you can read more about on pages 1213. On the topic of events, we have now released details for Christmas in Cathedral Square, our festive outdoor market, delivered in collaboration with Birmingham City Council, Danter Attractions and Birmingham Cathedral. For the full programme, head to pages 4 and 5. Colmore Business District boasts a wealth of fine bars and restaurants, but very few have stood the test of time as long as Primitivo. On pages 8 and 9 we speak to owner, Prit Sagoo about the past 25 years and what the future holds for the venue. With many of us settling into new routines and splitting our time between home and office working, the BID team is busier than ever planning an exciting programme of events for the festive season and beyond. There hasn’t been much to celebrate since March 2020, however I hope this Christmas will be different and I look forward to raising a glass with you during the festive period. MICHELE WILBY, CEO, COLMORE BID

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THE BID TEAM Michele Wilby Chief Executive Officer Jonathan Bryce Operations Manager Chris Brown Communications Manager Katy Paddock Special Projects Executive Paul Street Strategic Projects Officer

AUTUMN 2021 Christmas in Cathedral Square

Mike Mounfield Projects Manager Lee Stirrup Database Officer John-Jo Von Johnson Street Operations Manager Aaron Franklyn-Payne Security Supervisor Ryan Boothe Security Officer

Primitivo: A District favourite

James Crooks Security Officer Samantha Birch Security Officer Zack Palmer Security Officer Nicole Panayiotou Ambassador

Recent Movers & Shakers

CONTACT Colmore BID, 37a Waterloo St, Birmingham B2 5TJ Mail: info@colmorebid.co.uk colmorebusinessdistrict.com Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram: ColmoreBID

14 Introducing Pete Foster

FOR COLMORE LIFE MAGAZINE Stacey Barnfield Editor Designed and produced for Colmore BID by: Edwin Ellis Creative Media edwinelliscreativemedia.com Colmore Life magazine is printed on environmentally, socially and economically viable paper stock certified by FSC.

School of Art’s rich history

DID YOU KNOW? The City Council has launched ‘There’s a Better Way’ campaign in partnership with the WMCA. Instead of giving money to someone begging, the campaign is asking the public to donate to Change into Action through www.changeintoaction.org.uk

A DAY IN THE DISTRICT

BACK IN THE OFFICE? THERE’S PLENTY TO SEE, DO AND EAT! 1 BREAKFAST

2 TO THE SHOPS

3 SEE THE SIGHTS

4 ME TIME

URBAN CAFÉ

COLLEY ISON GALLERY

CHAMBERLAIN SQUARE PUREGYM

Visit the Urban website to view the menu and your mouth will be watered by a brilliant selection of brekkies, brunches and lunches. The Urban Brekkie with Lashfords sausages is a must to kick-start your day of District sightseeing. 30 Church Street

Located within a beautiful Victorian building on Colmore Row, the Colley Ison Gallery is known for representing some of Birmingham’s best painters (including Reuben Colley) alongside master graphics by the likes of Andy Warhol, Grayson Perry and Damien Hirst. 85-89 Colmore Row

There’s nothing better than buying a takout coffee from one of the many places in town and taking 30 minutes for yourself at one of the new seating steps in Birmingham’s newest outdoor space. It’s a lovely bit of urban escapism on a lovely autumn day! Chamberlain Square

The national gym chain’s Snow Hill venue is loaded with all the kit and expert advice you need to take your personal health care seriously. Membership rates couldn’t be more reasonable and Puregym has introduced Covid-cleaning routines for member comfort. 1 St Chads Queensway

4 LI V ER Y

COLMORE CIRCUS

LL ST

6 WA

O RL

5 DINNER

6 ONE FOR THE ROAD

ASHA’S

DIRTY MARTINI

Dine like a movie star at the fantastic Asha’s. It’s where Tom Cruise tasted a tikka masala (or two) during his time in Birmingham filming Mission Impossible 7. The tikka masala is just one of many mouthwatering Indian classics on the Asha’s menu. 12-22 Newhall Street

Dirty Martini Birmingham’s cocktail menu is bold, brash and full of brilliant treats. Featuring all the classics and a daring selection including ‘Fancy Pants’ and ‘Rum Away With Me’, it’s a winner. There’s a decent selection of mocktails if you’re designated driver. 7 Bennetts Hill

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Lowdown

LATEST NEWS FROM THE DISTRICT

The countdown begins! Christmas in Cathedral Square vendor list revealed

Picture courtesy The Reverend Canon Dr Josephine Houghton, Canon Precentor of Birmingham Cathedral

With just weeks to go until Christmas comes to the grounds of Birmingham Cathedral, Colmore BID has revealed the 50 vendors who will be bringing the festive cheer and selling their wares at Christmas in Cathedral Square. Delivered in partnership with Birmingham City Council, Birmingham Cathedral and Danter Attractions Limited, Christmas in Cathedral Square will take place in the grounds of Birmingham Cathedral between 17 November-19 December 2021, offering a mixture of craft, gift and food and drink stalls. The market will provide a platform for local businesses, producers and

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craftspeople to showcase their goods in the run up to Christmas, complimenting other established festive events in the city centre. Some of the District’s finest food and drink venues will be taking up residency in the Christmas chalets, including, Hookways, Java Roastery and Purecraft Bar & Kitchen. They will be joined by other vendors from across the city and region including, Loki Wine, Pineapple Club, Dirty Dogs and Fries, Donut Shack, Mumbai Grill and Fruit Dippers. If you’re looking to start your Christmas shopping or you’ve been super organised and just need to grab those last few presents, the

market will also have an array of gift and craft stalls. Beyond Skin, Burning Barn Rum, Cielo Pottery, Funny Brummie Pictures, Glassy Silver, IKIGAI, Indian Gypsy, Let It Bee and Woody Things are just a handful of crafter-makers who will be at Christmas in Cathedral Square. Michele Wilby, CEO of Colmore BID said: “The countdown is truly on for Christmas and while some may say it’s still too early to be talking about it, we’re incredibly excited about the city’s offering this year. Christmas in Cathedral Square is a new concept for us and one we’re pleased to be bringing to the grounds of Birmingham Cathedral.

The market map

Who will be there FOOD AND DRINK “It’s great to have some of the city’s venues joining us in the festive chalets, as well as other independent businesses from across the region. “We have worked with partners and other city centre attractions to build upon Birmingham’s already fantastic offering – this isn’t about competition, it’s about collaboration and ensuring the city attracts people from across the country, not only to visit our stalls, but also our fantastic hospitality venues, shops and hotels. 2021 will be a Christmas to remember – but this year for all the right reasons”. Christmas in Cathedral Square opens on 17 November with the official switch on of the District’s Christmas lights. More details about this event will be released over the coming weeks. To find out more about Christmas in Cathedral Square, visit www. colmorebusinessdistrict.com/ christmas-in-cathedral-square

Dirty Dogs and Fries Donut Shack Fruit Dippers Hookways Java Roastery Loki Wine Mumbai Grill Pineapple Club Purecraft Bar & Kitchen The Saucy Stallion

GIFT AND CRAFT Anne & Paul Bear Books Beki’s Brownies Beyond Your Skin Birmingham Balti Bowl Company Blissful Batter Bug and Belle Burning Barn Rum By Lou Moffat Cielo Pottery

Draw My City Epicurisity Funny Brummie Pictures Glassy Silver IKIGAI Indian Gypsy Jewelnique Let It Bee Natroma Miss Macaroon Paul Stringer Pinned on paper Prices Spice Quartermasters Ros and Alice Seasonal Ornament Company Steve Woodhams Art Summer and Silver The Cluttery The Crackling Candle Co Tropical Paradise Presents Wax Essence Wood Reinvented Woody Things YACreates

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DLA PIPER JOIN THE PRIDE FESTIVITIES Business District-based DLA Piper joined with The Alliance Network (Midlands) to march in the 2021 Pride Parade and mark the festivities. DLA Piper hosted the Network’s members on the terrace of their new Birmingham offices at Two Chamberlain Square for a pre-parade gathering. Face paints, glitter and brunch with bubbles provided a great way to start the day. Daniel Cowley, member of IRIS (DLA Pipers LGBT+ network) and a Senior Associate in Intellectual Property and Technology, said: “Many thanks to all those in the Birmingham office who helped to make the event a success and a big shout out to the Birmingham members of IRIS who were out in force for the march. Another great Pride for DLA Piper Birmingham and the Alliance Network.”

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Lowdown BID takes Pride in city with Parade float BUSINESS DISTRICT TEAM JOINS THOUSANDS FOR COLOURFUL EVENT ACROSS THE CITY CENTRE Colmore BID joined tens of thousands of people to march as part of the Birmingham Pride Parade. This year, Colmore BID had its own float as part of the Parade with people from the District joining the team on the float. The theme for this year’s Birmingham Pride was Stronger Together and after a year where many, especially those within the LGBTQ+ community, have felt isolated and alone, Colmore BID couldn’t think of a more important theme. Birmingham Pride held its first event back in 1997. Over the following 24 years Birmingham Pride has become one of the most important LGBTQ+ festivals in the UK attracting in excess of 40,000 people over the course of the weekend to the festival site in the heart of the LGBTQ+ village and over 75,000 participating in or watching the annual parade through the streets of Birmingham. This year, as a result of the Covid pandemic, Birmingham Pride was held over the weekend of Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 September.

The Colmore BID Board (in LoveBrum charity tee-shirts) and security team

‘Board Crushers’ top Community Games Birmingham’s business community traded in suits for gym kits and battled it out on the playing field for the title of Community Games 2021 Champion... but there could be only one winner. Nine teams competed in a variety of sporting activities, including Egg and Spoon race, 3-Legged Race, Sack Race, Dodgeball, Tug of War and 4-lane Bungee Run. With just two points in it, Crush the Board, Colmore BID’s very own security team took home the trophy with Crush the District (Colmore BID’s board of Directors) taking second and Hays Vets (Hays Recruitment) coming in third. Other companies competing in this year’s games included FleetMilne Property, Kennedy’s Law and Events in a Box. The Community Games is organised by Colmore BID, in collaboration with All In All Events. Launched in 2012 to celebrate the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Community Games have become a staple event in the District’s calendar, with over 40 businesses competing over the years. This year’s games raised £360 for Birmingham Food Banks, which has been providing emergency food and support to local people in crisis since October 2011.

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Prit, centre, with the Primitivo team

‘Birmingham has developed so much over the past 25 years and Colmore has become a little neighbourhood’ PRIMITIVO OWNER PRIT SAGOO REFLECTS ON A QUARTER OF A CENTURY OF GOOD FOOD AND DRINK AT ONE OF THE DISTRICT’S MOST POPULAR VENUES Interview: Paul Fulford

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It’s mid-afternoon on a sunny Thursday and, in a side street tucked away in the Colmore Business District, people are outside enjoying the late summer warmth. People, their jackets off, cold drinks in front of them, sit chatting and laughing at the tables outside Primitivo bar and restaurant in Barwick Street. Its wide doors are thrown open, revealing more customers enjoying themselves in its elegant, understated interior. It’s relaxed and grown up – a place that brings an almost European or City of London vibe to the area. And it’s one of the oldest hospitality businesses in the area, having just celebrated its 25th anniversary. It marked the milestone by donating to Birmingham Hippodrome and Nice, the charity that supports children with neurological motor disorders. Owner Prit Sagoo says it’s important to give something back to the community. She’s understandably proud of what she and her team have created over the past quarter-of-a-century. It’s become a favourite lunchtime and evening spot for many members of the business community in the District. “We have customers who have been visiting us the 25 years we’ve been open,” she says. “Senior managers brought in their junior staff and now those people have been promoted and are bringing in their colleagues.” We’re sitting in the Barwick room, a relatively new extension to Primitivo that’s a fabulous venue for meetings or private functions. The Colmore area has evolved hugely since Primitivo arrived all those years ago, taking over a premises that had previously been a hairdressers and then Birmingham’s first trendy sandwich shop before morphing into a bar. Prit took the helm after managing fashionable city centre bars such as Quo Vardis and Carpe Diem and becoming known and respected among the business community. At that time, the Grand Hotel was still operating before closing for several years and undergoing its massive redevelopment. Drinking spots like the Cathedral Tavern, Sub Lounge and Hugo’s Bar were familiar names among Birmingham’s movers and shakers. The Eye Hospital stood in the heart of the

Interview: Prit Sagoo area until its closure, after which Hotel du Vin moved in and transformed the magnificent Victorian building. And, nearby, the Birmingham Post & Mail’s towering headquarters dominated Colmore Circus, its business journalists among the Primitivo faithful until the media giant moved out of town to Fort Dunlop. “The area was busy but nowhere near as vibrant as it is now,” remembers Prit. “There weren’t that many offices in the immediate vicinity - most were towards Cornwall Street.” A few old buildings disappeared and new ones sprung up, including the big Direct Line headquarters opposite Primitivo. More and more businesses moved into the area to rub shoulders with established city firms. So did new hospitality businesses such as the Metro Bar (now Zen Metro) and, in recent years, Gusto, Gaucho, Fazenda, Dishoom and Tattu. Plus non-hospitality businesses such as the upmarket gentlemen’s outfitter Clements and Church have sprung up. But amid all the change, Primitivo has maintained a loyal following among people working in the property, financial, legal and other sectors. The secret of retaining such popularity, Prit believes, is having a great team front-of-house and in the kitchen utterly committed to pleasing the customers. “It’s about us respecting the customers and the customers respecting us realising that we’re here to please them. “It takes years and years for that to develop, but its absolutely necessary for a consistent business.” The menu has changed since the early years - when classic British dishes such as liver and onions, bangers and mash, devilled kidneys and spotted dick were regular treats. And, of course, chip butties, which were particularly popular on Friday afternoons. Today’s menu retains the same ethos – of simplicity and quality. It’s probably best described as Modern British. The ever-popular faggots and peas continues to pop up on the menu. But now, in keeping with the eclectic times, there are also dishes with influences from Italy, Spain and Thailand. There are also more vegetarian options and plenty of sharing plates. Of course there have been challenges

during the past quarterof-a-century. There was the worldwide recession of 2007-2009, which caused particular problems for the corporate sector. Then Primitivo closed for two years in 2015 when work got underway to transform The Grand Hotel into the beautiful hotel that it is today. “I was grieving when Primitivo was closed. Pining. I missed it so much,” says Prit. She busied herself learning Spanish and was delighted that so many old customers kept in touch. Then, as soon as news emerged of Primitivo’s impending reopening in May 2017, bookings began pouring in. Customers returned to find the place transformed, with contemporary, stylish decor that respects the old building’s heritage. Later, of course, came the challenge of the Covid pandemic, which closed hospitality venues and many offices. “The important thing was ensuring that everyone was safe,” adds Prit. “But we bounced back and it’s great to see customers supporting us again.” Because of Covid, eating and drinking outdoors became a favoured option. Primitivo already has outside tables, but the Colmore Business District

Above: A Colmore BID parklet outside Primitivo, the bar in the 1990s and the Barwick Suite

‘We bounced back and it’s great to see customers supporting us again’

installed the so-called parklets – which are now adding that Continental atmosphere throughout the district. “We always had that vibe because of our outside seating but now the whole area is more like Europe – and hospitality badly needs that,” says Prit. Now, looking ahead, the future appears rosy. Not least because of the Commonwealth Games which come to Birmingham next year. “The hotels will be full and the restaurants will be full and that’s good for everyone,” she explains. “It’s fantastic for Birmingham. It will really put us on the map and support local businesses.” These are exciting times in the District, with the reopening of The Grand Hotel, the continued success of Hotel du Vin, the Paradise development and the forthcoming opening of a big new Goldman Sach’s office in the area plus the building of the landmark 103 Colmore Row development on the site of the old Nat West Tower. Prit says: “Birmingham has developed so much over the past 25 years. “It hasn’t stood still and it’s now the most vibrant and important city outside London. “Colmore itself has become a little neighbourhood. “We have our regulars who work here, but it’s also a destination for people who want to go out to enjoy a drink or something to eat.” By now, as our conversation winds up and staff prepare for the evening clientele, the late summer shadows are lengthening. But tables outside and inside Primitivo are still busy as colleagues and friends continue to enjoy the charms of one of Birmingham’s success stories. It’s places like Primitivo that help to make Colmore unique.

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Lowdown Games to give a global spotlight to region’s creativity

Wondrous Stories in Centenary Square will be seen by thousands of visitors at the event and online

DETAILS OF 2022 BIRMINGHAM FESTIVAL REVEALED A spectacular six-month festival shining a global spotlight on creativity in Birmingham and the West Midlands will run from March through to September 2022. The £12 million Birmingham 2022 Festival, part of the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, will feature hundreds of artistic commissions across the region including art, photography, dance, theatre, digital art and more. It will open with a free spectacular large scale production in Centenary Square featuring a cast of over 300 performers. The Birmingham 2022 Festival will open with Wondrous Stories, a spectacular large-scale production by world renowned and Leamington Spa based dance-circus company,

Motionhouse. Wondrous Stories will be created and directed by Kevin Finnan MBE, Artistic Director of Motionhouse, who was choreographer and movement director of the London 2012 Paralympic Games ceremonies. To create the show, Kevin has pulled together a team of artistic collaborators including Birmingham-based choreographers Sonia Sabri and Jamaal Burkmar, composer Sophy Smith and digital artists Logela Multimedia. Wondrous Stories will transform Centenary Square with an extraordinary production featuring a giant aerial spectacle with a flying book and a colossal globe alongside innovative digital projections. Motionhouse’s professional dancers will be accompanied by local choirs and a

PANDEMIC WATERCOLOURS ON DISPLAY AT INSTITUTE Being held at Birmingham & Midland Institute, Margaret Street, ‘My Life in Trees’ is an exhibition of watercolour paintings by Birmingham-based artist Monica Perez Vega that look at a life through the trees that were there. The paintings mark the movements and moments that have shaped the artist’s life. Created during the pandemic lockdown, the paintings reflect a cathartic journey of searching for roots in rootlessness. Monica is an artist whose work explores ideas of uncertainty and adaptation. She is originally from California, but has lived in Montreal, London and currently Birmingham. 1- 26 November 2021, Mon-Sat 10-4 pm, The Birmingham & Midland Institute, 9 Margaret St, Birmingham, B3 3BS

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community cast of over 300 from the Birmingham 2022 Festival Critical Mass participation project. Martin Green, Chief Creative Officer at Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games said: “This spectacular festival will feature over 300 brand-new creative works, providing essential funding direct to artists and thousands of participatory moments for audiences with art, dance, theatre on their doorstep. I couldn’t think of a better way to begin than with Motionhouse’s awe-inspiring spectacle which will be free for everyone to enjoy.” Other highlights of the Birmingham 2022 Festival include Generations by Julian Germain, a large-scale photographic portraiture exhibition that will appear in public settings across the region. Birmingham’s Flatpack Festival will present Wonderland, a unique heritage project telling the film-going story of Birmingham – from fairground film shows to the birth of the Odeon, from South Asian picturehouses to the multiplex era. Support for the festival comes from Arts Council England and The National Lottery Heritage Fund plus Spirit of 2012, Birmingham City Council, British Council and national trusts & foundations such as the Paul Hamlyn Foundation. Register at birmingham2022.com/ festival to be amongst the first to discover the full programme when it is unveiled in January.

Lowdown

Scroll surprise for museum staff BATTLE SCENES BAFFLE EXPERTS A 15m (49ft) Japanese scroll depicting a battle has recently taken staff at Birmingham Museum & Art Gallery by surprise. The scroll is one of 27,000 items being digitised and catalogued at the museum and staff were initially unaware of just how long the scroll would be until they began carefully unrolling it. The scroll shows warriors in battle and at rest, in colourful armour, with birds flying overhead. In one scene a man can be seen leading his horse while nearby archers take aim and another scene shows a group of women in a house, surrounded by an ornamental pool. In one brutal battle scene, a soldier is seen taking an arrow to the eye. Ayesha Hussain, collections digitisation assistant, said there was “limited information” on the scrolls in its collection, which include other examples, printed on paper and on silk.

EQUINOX ARTWORK TO BE SUSPENDED AT 103 COLMORE ROW A new piece of public art, posthumously honouring Wolverhampton artist John Pickering, is to be installed at 103 Colmore Row, Birmingham’s tallest new office building. The sculpture, entitled ‘Equinox’, is based on Pickering’s work and will be suspended nine metres above the ground in the building’s fourstorey colonnade. Made from solid steel tubes and laser cut metal sheets, the sculpture weighs more than 1.5 tonnes and measures seven metres from tip-to-tip – the height of a two-storey house.

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‘Future business districts will need to be even more focused around connections and culture’ The defining character of Colmore Business District in recent years has been its increasing vibrancy. The quality and diversity our cafés, bars and restaurants along with growing cultural activity and events have given real meaning to Colmore life. When the pandemic hit in March 2020, with most of us ordered to stay home, it was not just offices which went quiet but the streets we walked, where we picked up a coffee, the places we met colleagues and the venues where we were entertained after work which were also drained of life. Early in the first lockdown, Colmore BID realised that the pandemic would have a major impact on how business districts and city centres would function in the future. Even without knowing

By Kevin Johnson

about waves, lockdown tiers and vaccines in the summer of 2020, it was clear that COVID-19 was acting as a supercharger of underlying trends. The BID set up a study to look at the effects and impacts. This month, the research and initial response on what it has told us about curating the Future Business District is being published. The BID is excited to share the main points with Colmore Life readers, not least because investing in Colmore’s life comes top of the list for a successful Future Business District.

RESEARCH FINDINGS

Research included a series of workshops identifying ‘megatrends’ heading to 2030; a Call for Evidence, 21 one-to-one interviews; three

focussed workshops; a citizen survey with Transport for West Midlands; and data analysis based on a set of future scenarios. Six broad conclusions have been drawn: 1. Digital transformation of the workplace and tech disruption will continue to impact on business models 2. Hybrid working is here to stay for many (not all); two / three days working in the office and three / two days working from home 3. Access to talent is ever more critical and there is increased demand for ‘soft’ skills and jobs that rely on human interaction 4. Future business districts will need to be even more focused around

THE FUTURE BUSINESS DISTRICT STUDY

The Space Between

The Future Business District Study started in December 2020. Colmore BID, together with the West Midlands Combined Authority and Birmingham City Council along with the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership, all city centre BIDs and MEPC and Balfour Beatty funded the project. The Steering Group was chaired by Mike Best (Turley); Kevin Johnson (Urban Communications) was project director and City-REDI (University of Birmingham) delivered the research programme with support from OCTOBER 2021

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UKRI. An Advisory Panel, chaired by Alex Bishop (Shoosmiths), provided feedback throughout. The Study was established to answer two key questions: 1. What is the likely long-term impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on city centre business districts? 2. How can we ensure they remain successful as places to attract businesses and people and contribute to vibrant city centres?

The Future Business District connections and culture as a place to meet and enjoy urban experiences 5. Safety on transport, in public spaces and at offices has risen up the agenda 6. Demand for recognising social value, climate change and inclusivity among consumers and employees will continue to grow.

COVID AND CITIES

COVID-19 is not the first shock to have impacted cities or raised questions about their function in the aftermath of war or terrorist atrocity; population or industrial shift; or disease and pandemics. Cities have previously returned from seismic occurrences to their place as economic engines and gathering places. Cities are already coming back and we anticipate our business district will not just survive but thrive. The experiences of previous shocks, such as ‘Spanish Flu’ in 1918, are useful but do not give a full forecast of the future. Medical science has progressed remarkably since, meaning we have started to ‘live with COVID.’ Technology and automation; the nature of our economy and industrial mix; the climate emergency and the wellbeing agenda mean government, businesses and individuals will seek to normalise some behaviours and experiences of the last 18 months rather than default to the past. The agglomeration advantages, as economists describe them, of cities are not going away. The benefits from the proximity of workers in business, professional and financial services, technology and creative media are well known. Even in a post COVID world where videoconferencing accelerated by years in just weeks, Zoom and Teams cannot replicate in-person interaction or the joys of serendipity. Young professionals remain attracted to thriving cities and their employment opportunities as well as the social networks and cultural mix on offer. They also need the

direction and support of business leaders and their peers along with formal and informal development. From months of deep dive research and many conversations, we believe: 1. Colmore Business District will continue to thrive – but will require more active curation 2. Hybrid is here to stay – let’s harness it and make Birmingham the home of hybrid 3. As some people work from city centre offices on fewer days a week, there’s a big opportunity to grow and diversify use of the area.

OUR VISION

Colmore Business District will remain successful if we invest in The Space Between that gives Colmore life and makes it attractive to businesses, professionals and other visitors. Six themes give us a framework for action: 1. CONNECTIONS AND CULTURE The place to connect. Meeting people and exchanging ideas remains the great advantage of cities and their central business districts. To attract people back and keep them returning, we’ll develop an even stronger leisure offer and more cultural experiences. 2. AGILE AND FLEXIBLE Harness hybrid – the best of both worlds. We will make the most of our office space and create a flexible business district for an agile workforce.

3. COLMORE COLLABORATES Greater co-operation is needed between landlords, investors, occupiers and public agencies to anticipate changing needs and exploit opportunities. 4. ON THE MOVE Reaching and moving round the city centre needs a more integrated and demand responsive transport network, promoting active travel and placing less pressure on peak time journeys. 5. SAFE AND SOUND The priority people attach to safety and wellbeing on transport, in public places and at offices has risen rapidly. We must meet raised expectations. 6. OPEN TO ALL Returning from C-19 is a unique opportunity to open up the business district to more people – to make it feel an inclusive place for everyone. We have developed 40 ideas to help deliver our vision – here’s just four: CURATOR GENERAL A new, lead role for the city centre, targeting and welcoming new entrants; acting as creative director, commissioning events and festivals and shaping public realm and green spaces COLMORE WORKS Dedicated landing space for start-ups, independent retail/ food/culture operators and social enterprises utilising vacant or underused property ON THE GROUND Open up underutilised ground floor spaces in buildings for cultural, community and training use MOBILITY HUBS Mini transport interchanges that connect EV charging points and micro-mobility modes, including bikes and scooters. At the heart of this work are three principles that will underpin the Future Business District:

CURATE COLLABORATE CONNECT

Colmore BID will now work with partners to: n Invest in high quality public spaces and safe routes across the city centre n Support our hospitality venues and shops to capitalise on the new café culture n Create more green space to support wellbeing and provide environmental benefits n Build on our wider cultural offer to provide unique experiences both in the district and nearby n Appeal to current and future residents to sustain local businesses n ‘Harness hybrid’ to make Birmingham the best city from which to work flexibly

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Movers Shakers A round-up of the latest Business District launches, relocations, appointments and promotions

MK2 co-founding directors Mark Rooke and Mark Johnson in the new office

MK2 REAL ESTATE Birmingham property consultancy MK2 Real Estate has relocated to larger premises in the Business District. The company has acquired 57 Cornwall Street, part of the new Lightwell development, from developer Adapt. Creative Retail advised Adapt on the sale. MK2 bought the 4,100 sq ft ground floor corner office in April this year and has recently moved in following a full grade A specification fit-out, complete with exposed services and a mezzanine level. The fit-out was managed by MK2’s own building consultancy team, headed by Ian Wilton. City Office Interiors were the fit-out contractor. Previously based at 172 Edmund Street, the move to 57 Cornwall Street has more than doubled MK2’s office space, where it can now accommodate up to 30 people. It currently employs 19 following the recent appointment of senior surveyor Simrun Kaur and facilities manager Daniel Blakeman. Mark Johnson, co-founder and director of MK2 Real Estate, said: “Having our own office is a significant investment in the long-term future of the business, as well as a commitment to having a physical presence in the city centre, which is important to us and our clients.”

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Matt Harvey, Towers; Simon Ward (back) Springboard Corporate Finance; Emma Neate, Neate & Pugh; David Neat, Springboard Corporate Finance; Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands

David Fennell, Gowling WLG; Paula Laird, Squire Patton Boggs

Phil Pellegrini, Dains Accountants; Terry Cooper, Thursfields Solicitors; Toby Carpenter, Sigma Investment Management

COLMORE PARTNERS

characterised by many of the iconic building’s original features. Colmore Partners was founded by Richard Meek and Wendy Fellows who, between them, have over 50 years’ experience in the financial services industry. The company is staff-owned and employs a team of five people, supported by an advisory board from different professional backgrounds. Colmore Partners hosted 30 guests, including Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, at the launch event at Loki Wines in Great Western Arcade.

A growing firm of independent financial planners has relocated to refurbished office suites on Colmore Row. Colmore Partners has taken 772 sq ft of space on the first floor of the Grade II* listed Imperial and Whitehall, part of The Grand, Birmingham. The firm has signed a five-year lease with landlord Hortons’ Estate Ltd, which has invested in the modern refurbishment of Imperial and Whitehall to create flexible working suites,

PWC PwC has further enhanced its Business Restructuring Services with the appointment of Rob Asplin as a senior adviser. Asplin brings two decades of expertise in the restructuring and private equity sectors, specialising in protecting and creating value in turnaround situations. Previously he has been a partner in a Special Situations Fund; a Portfolio Chief Restructuring Officer; a Non-Executive Director and he has held senior roles in Corporate Finance and banking. His appointment at PwC will centre on supporting UK businesses of all sizes to maximise value through the critical post-Covid recovery period. Asplin will be particularly focused on working with Private Equity-backed businesses and Private Equity owners in designing and delivering value recovery plans. Meanwhile, PwC has further enhanced its tax services offering with the appointment of Habib Farazmand. The appointment underlines the tax team’s commitment to investment in teams across the UK, bolstering an already extensive regional offering of more than 300 specialists. Habib joins PwC as a Director and will be specialising in large international corporate tax projects, leading key account relationships and will also play a key role in the growth of PwC’s regional tax practice, utilising his experience across all market sectors from private business to global organisations. He brings with him over 16 years’ experience of working with a broad range of clients in multiple sectors, providing support through transactions, organisational and regulatory change. Habib started his career in PwC’s large corporate tax practice before moving to industry and then specialising in EY’s international tax services team where he has spent the last 10 years including a successful secondment in New York.

New appointments at PwC: Rob Asplin and Habib Farazmand

CBRE

Will Ventham and Martin Guest

CBRE has appointed Will Ventham as head of its Birmingham office. He joined the property consultancy in 2001, progressing to his most recent role as head of the Midlands office agency team. Well known for advising on some of the region’s highest profile office developments, including Paradise, Arena, Brindleyplace, 55 Colmore Row and Blythe Valley Park, and working alongside Hermes, MEPC, IM Properties and Hines, he will continue to advise key clients in addition to steering the Birmingham office, which employs more than 100 at its Temple Row HQ. Ventham takes over from Martin Guest, who has been head of office since 2005. He said: “The Birmingham office has gone from strength to strength under Martin’s leadership and I look forward to taking the helm, building on our success and leading and supporting our fantastic young, diverse and talented team. “As markets continue to recover there will be significant opportunity to grow and develop our existing team and to welcome new talent on board.” Martin Guest will now focus on his role as regional managing director of CBRE’s Midlands and South business, which includes the Birmingham, Bristol and Southampton offices.

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Movers&Shakers HARRIS LAMB Harris Lamb’s property management team has been appointed to oversee the day-to-day running of newly refurbished office building 120 Colmore Row, pictured below. The team has been instructed by AHWL to take on the management. Shirley Greenlees, Director, said: “With the last year having seen office properties largely empty as a direct result of the pandemic, there is a growing appetite for a return to the city now that restrictions have eased. “AHWL has recognised that desire and has invested £400,000 in a superb refurbishment of this Grade II listed property to attract occupiers to the city’s premier business district, and we are delighted to have been appointed as managing agents for the building. “We will be working closely with the letting agents, JLL, as occupiers are secured for the 13,136 sq. ft. Grade II listed building, taking responsibility for all aspects of landlord and tenant liaison, lease management, and service charge administration, as well as overseeing the maintenance at the property to ensure it retains the high specification of its recent overhaul.”

Kirsty Shaw and Laura Craig, who have joined Hortons’ Estate Ltd.

HORTONS’ ESTATE Hortons’ Estate Ltd has announced the appointment of a new financial controller as one of two additions to its team. Qualified management accountant, Kirsty Shaw, joins Hortons’ from Midlands-based property company, Sheet Anchor and will be responsible for managing the property group’s accounting and finance functions. Shaw has gained a broad range of experience through a number of previous accounting roles with One Stop Stores and West Midlands Combined Authority. She is joined by Laura Craig who has been appointed property accountant. Craig has previously worked at Cushman & Wakefield and was most recently a client accountant for Avison Young in Birmingham. David Freeman, finance director of Hortons’, said: “Kirsty and Laura are welcome additions and their skills and experience will enhance an already strong team.”

TILNEY SMITH & WILLIAMSON Tilney Smith & Williamson, the wealth management and professional services group, is to merge its Birmingham operations into a new single office at 103 Colmore Row as part of its growth ambitions for the Midlands. The company has agreed a ten-year lease on 12,146 sq ft on the 14th floor of the 26-storey landmark building with joint venture partners Tristan Capital Partners (Tristan) and Sterling Property Ventures (Sterling). Currently based in offices at 9 Colmore Row and Baskerville House, the firm will move to the new office at 103 Colmore Row, where it will accommodate around 150 people.

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In addition to its office on the 14th floor, Tilney Smith & Williamson will have access to the members’ business club on the 18th floor, where it can hold seminars, presentations and outdoor events on the 3,000 sq ft terrace. Stephen Drew, professional services regional managing partner at Tilney Smith & Williamson in Birmingham, said:“We are excited by our move to a landmark building in our growing city. “Our professional services team has more than doubled in the last 12 months and, as our growth journey continues, we are delighted to be able to offer a contemporary and smart working environment for our clients and team.”

Movers&Shakers ISIO Isio, the pensions and investment advisory business, has opened its first permanent office in Birmingham, completing the firm’s acquisition of a national network of eight offices. Taking 10,000 sq ft of the No.1 Colmore Square building, the new office will be home to 130 Isio employees. The company, which formed out of the management buy-out of KPMG’s pensions consulting unit, launched in March 2020. While the design and build has been taking place, the Birmingham-based team have been using temporary office space but are now moving into their new home with neighbours including EY, Cushman & Wakefield and Shakespeare Martineau. Matt Collinson, Isio regional lead for the Midlands, said: “Following lockdown, most businesses are going back into the office, but we are in the exciting position of launching the next chapter in our journey in the heart of Birmingham’s business district. We’re a peoplefocused business so it’s vital that we have a space to start seeing our teams and clients in person again.” Isio has also appointed its first permanent chief technology officer. Matt Glover, who will be based in the Birmingham office, brings 20 years of financial services experience and joins from Unity Trust Bank, having previously worked at Al Rayan Bank and NatWest. Glover will lead Isio’s technology and development teams and be responsible for its IT strategy and change portfolio. He said: “Isio is at an exciting stage in its journey and I am looking forward to working with the hugely talented team.”

ICENI PROJECTS Property advisory firm Iceni Projects has launched a new Midlands office at The Colmore Building. Headed up by Gemma Jenkinson, the move will expand the firm’s ability to meet the growing needs of its clients in the Midlands. Jenkinson, of Richmond Planning Ltd, a consultancy she founded in 2017; merged her existing business with Iceni in September. Gemma brings over 20 years’ private sector consultancy experience, which has seen her lead the delivery of complex urban sites and largescale strategic developments, both through planning applications and strategic site promotion. In addition to Birmingham, Iceni Projects has offices in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Manchester and London. The multi-disciplinary company employs over 110 staff with expertise in archaeology; design; heritage and townscape; impact management; town planning; sustainable development, economics and transport planning.

LIQUID PR Birmingham-based communications consultancy, Liquid, has been named ‘Best Agency Outside of London’ at the PRWeek Awards 2021. The winners of the industry-recognised awards, which celebrate the very best PR and communications professionals and their work, were announced during a ceremony at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House in London.

Iceni Projects Director Gemma Jenkinson and Assistant Planner, Simran Kang

The event saw Liquid recognised for its commercial achievements, creative successes, and innovative response to the Covid-19 pandemic – where it invested in its people more than ever before. The award win builds on Liquid’s success this year and follows the company ranking at number 109 in the PRWeek Top 150 tables – up 17 places from 2020. The company was also ranked 5th nationally for public sector engagement.

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Property

Paradise plans continue apace VAST DEVELOPMENT CONTINUES TO TRANSFORM THE CITY CENTRE

Keep an eye on the progress at Paradise by visiting the website which has a number of live timelapse cameras capturing the transformation taking place: paradise birmingham. co.uk

Throughout the summer months the transformation at Paradise has continued apace, during a period of positive change in the city centre. Even with the challenges presented by the pandemic it has been encouraging to see the ongoing activity and investment in the area. For those that have walked near Chamberlain and Centenary Square over the last few months, the pace of change has been staggering. Although there is still lots more to come, it is increasingly easier to see the positive differences that are being made by open spaces and the buildings that surround them with many people seeing the new square for the first time. Paradise feels like more than just a development, it represents a longterm investment in how Birmingham functions and what it stands for in the eyes of the rest of the nation both culturally and economically. The Paradise team joined leading transformative urban regeneration developer MEPC in the summer to deliver the rest of this important new destination for the city. With key elements nearing completion and more exciting prospects in the pipeline it is a truly exciting time for

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Birmingham as its future is being shaped. During the summer Chamberlain Square has come alive with people enjoying this rejuvenated public space in the city. The MEPC team was proud to welcome the spectacular Gratitude touring public art installation to Paradise as a fitting tribute to the many NHS staff and other key workers for their ongoing courage and dedication throughout the pandemic, as well as the Air Ambulance Mission Critical photography exhibition to commemorate its 30th anniversary. More companies have recently taken occupation of their new Paradise home including global law firm DLA Piper, accountancy firm Mazars, growing national law firm Knights and in September, world leading design, engineering and project management consultancy Atkins announced its decision to move to Two Chamberlain Square this autumn.

In addition, Arup, the employeeowned built environment consultancy, announced its decision to move its third largest global office to Paradise in a move that will bring 1,000 jobs to Birmingham city centre. Mark Jones, Birmingham office leader at Arup, said: “Our investment in this move to Paradise Birmingham in 2023 represents a major commitment to the region. It supports our global aim to build flexible workspace and is a significant milestone in our journey towards achieving net-zero emissions across our global operations by 2030.” As an important contributor to regional growth, Paradise is committed to creating high-quality workplaces that are tech enabled, smart, green and healthy. Beyond businesses taking up residence there are key considerations throughout the development around sustainability, employee wellbeing

Property Pictured: Three new detailed planning applications have been submitted to Birmingham City Council to complete Phase Two of Paradise with plans for the fourth office building Three Chamberlain Square, a 152- bedroom boutique hotel and new public square and additional public realm providing interconnections across Paradise. A series of new public squares and pedestrian routes through the development will build on the success of the new public realm like Chamberlain Square, Congreve Street and Centenary Way and see the restored statues of James Watt and Joseph Priestley returned to the area as part of Phase Two.

and the increasing demand for flexible working. 80,000 new occupants were also welcomed to Paradise – in the shape of its own bee colonies, housed in two traditional hives. The hives have been installed as part of an ecology-led initiative to bring more wildlife to the development and encourage a greater diversity of insects in this part of the city centre. The ongoing commitments speak volumes for Birmingham and its role as a commercial hub both now and for the future. With improved tram links and pedestrian routes on the horizon the overall connectivity of the city will improve for all those that live, work in and visit the centre. Global businesses have already recognised the potential that this urban Paradise has to offer and it will be intriguing to see what bounties are on offer during the coming months for people to observe and enjoy. Rob Groves, Regional Development Director, MEPC Limited

Flexible workspace for 103 Colmore Row X+WHY TAKES SPACE ACROSS SEVERAL FLOORS OF LANDMARK TOWER Tristan Capital Partners (Tristan) and Sterling Property Ventures (Sterling) have signed a flexible workspace provider for 103 Colmore Row, Birmingham. x+why has taken 31,500 sq ft on the first, second, third and part of the 18th floors. It will also manage the 3,000 sq ft 18th floor terrace – the highest outside London – which will be accessible to all occupiers of the building, as well as being available for private hire. The deal is the first to be signed by x+why outside London, where it currently has three bases. The company will offer self-contained office suites, meeting rooms, coworking space, event space, lounge areas and support services at 103 Colmore Row, on a pay-as-you-go basis and all bookable via the 103 bespoke building smart app. In another first for both x+why and Birmingham, the company will be launching an exclusive members’ business club. The Tristan Capital Partners’ EPISO 4 Fund and Sterling joint venture team has been keen to secure a flexible operator for the building, as a result of changing workspace requirements in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. Paul Pritchard, director at Tristan, said: “Businesses are re-thinking their work patterns, with an element of working from home likely to be a permanent feature going forward. By dedicating two and a half floors of 103 Colmore Row to flex space our occupiers can calibrate their requirements within the building, according to their needs.”

Rupert Dean, CEO & Co-Founder of x+why, added: “Our ambition is to expand nationally, and we are really excited to be able to open in such a prestigious and green building. We were really impressed by the commitment of the team creating 103 Colmore Row and it was clear that we shared the same vision on ESG values and the future of work.” 103 Colmore Row comprises 223,631 sq ft of BREEAM Excellent Grade A office space. The 26-storey building, at the heart of the city’s business district, boasts a two-storey top floor restaurant and ground floor café, both to be operated by D&D London. Letting agents for the development are Colliers, Cushman & Wakefield and Knight Frank.

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District News

‘I love the view from the Cupola on a summer’s evening and watching the city go by’ THE BUSINESS DISTRICT WELCOMES PETE FOSTER, RECENTLY APPOINTED HEAD OF FACILITIES AT BIRMINGHAM CATHEDRAL Tell us a bit about yourself I am 28 and am a born but not bred Brummie. I grew up in Leicestershire and have been working since I left school at 16. I have worked in facilities in a few roles and started out at as a Premises Officer at a college. I then went on to join the RAF to try something different and travel the world. Just prior to working at the Cathedral I worked in West Oxfordshire at Burford school, founded in 1571, and one of a handful of state boarding schools in the UK. When did you join #TeamCathedral? I first started at Birmingham Cathedral in May 2021 and have settled in well and am loving the role and all the challenges and delights that are involved. What are you responsible for? What’s your role? I am the Head of Facilities responsible for the day-to-day running of the cathedral. My days are varied, and I can go from liaising and working with external organisations to keeping us up to date with health and safety regulations and even helping the team to clean and repair wear and tear to

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the cathedral building as and when required. I also look at the strategic future of our facilities and plan for major repair and renovation works to keep the cathedral looking its best for generations to come. Who else do you work with? I work with all heads of departments within the cathedral and my relationship with those individuals is key to the success of the cathedral’s mission within the local community. I also work with Birmingham City Council, Colmore BID and other external organisations daily to ensure that our outreach is both safe and secure within the local area and that Cathedral Square is maintained.

Looking after a Grade I-listed building must bring some challenges and achievements? Any spring to mind? Working with any older building presents challenges whether listed or not as both repairs and new works must fit within the theme and setting of the existing building while complying with current industry and government requirements and standards. However, this is even more engaging and sometimes challenging when dealing with a listed building as sometimes the aesthetic and legislative requirements stand entirely opposed. What is next for the cathedral? We are currently busy organising and

preparing for our Christmas Market that we are hosting in partnership with Danter Attractions, Colmore BID and Birmingham City Council. We are excited for the chance to welcome the community to Cathedral Square and be able to offer something of what Christmas means to us. We will be embarking on the conservation of the stunning Burne-Jones stained glass windows too. With the Commonwealth Games happening next year it’s a great time to be in Birmingham. What’s your favourite part of the cathedral or Cathedral Square? That’s a tricky question as the whole of the cathedral is amazing. However, it’s one of two things: The Burne-Jones windows are truly magnificent and tell the stories they relate to in a very real way and the colours are so deep and vibrant. I also love the view from the top of the cathedral standing on the Cupola on a summer’s evening watching the city go by is an incredible privilege and is near the top of my list for favourite places in the cathedral. Name the top two or three lessons you learned from your experience in the RAF? Being in the RAF was a privilege, having the chance to serve my country and local community at home and abroad on global operations. The RAF will always hold a special place in my heart, and I would really encourage any young person to apply to join at their local Armed Forces Careers Office. The best things about the RAF were the world leading training on offer, the chance to travel and the way they push you to become the best that you can. I wouldn’t be in the position I am today if I hadn’t joined the RAF. What would you say to people that may not have visited the cathedral yet? You need to visit the cathedral if you haven’t already and if you have come again! It is an incredible building, and it really is the heart of the city centre. If you haven’t been to the cathedral, you are missing out, come learn about your local history and how we are moving the cathedral into the 21st Century though our eco church works and our local outreach. Follow Birmingham Cathedral on Twitter, Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. The handle is @bhamcathedral

The Colmore Colour Palette

burne-jones SCHOOL glass OF ART RED

ANGLO SAXON GOLD

GRAND HOTEL STONE

PIGEON PARK GREEN

FLOOZIE jade

C:7 m:100 y:51 K:27

C:0 m:33 y:86 K:0

C:0 m:11 y:9 K:10

C:56 m:26 y:100 K:7

C:100 m:0 y:34 K:34

C:7 m:83 y:91 K:5

Introducing our very own Colmore Colour Palette You may have seen the Colour Palette designs popping up across Birmingham with colourful creations celebrating the best of the city. Now Colmore Business District has its own version after creator Stacey Barnfield (producer of Colmore Life magazine) was asked to design a bespoke palette. The Colmore Colour Palette shows off the best of our District with swatches for the Burne-Jones glass at Birmingham Cathedral (see page 18), the Floozie in the Jacuzzi, School of Art on Margaret Street (see pages 22 and 23) and, of course, Pigeon Park! Expect to see The Colmore Colour Palette across the Business District and on the BID team’s business cards. Michele Wilby, CEO, Colmore BID, said: “We’ve been fans of Stacey’s Colour Palette designs since day one and jumped at the chance of commissioning a version for Colmore.

“While the BID is synonymous with the colour purple, the District is steeped in history and heritage, which we wished to tell through colour. Keep your eyes peeled as no doubt you’ll be seeing the Colmore Colour Palette gracing mugs, tote bags and prints soon.” The original Birmingham Colour Palette design is on display in Grand Central above New Street station (below) and Stacey is working on versions for palettes around the country at thecolourpalettecompany.com

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Art in the District

Creative duo add colour to Livery Street ‘GREEN IN THE CITY’ PAINT COMMISSION COMPLETED TO PROVIDE VISUAL APPEAL By Stacey Barnfield

An eye-catching large-format artwork has now been completed to enhance a part of Livery Street in Colmore Business District. E.L. Thrush and Anna Davies completed the artwork on behalf of Colmore BID. The Livery Street artwork will be in place for at least five years and covers a concrete wall approximately 8ft high and 60ft wide at the entrance to Livery Street by the junction with Great Charles Street Queensway. Luke is an illustrator with over 11 years’ experience in commercial and large format design. Anna is an interior architect with a background within the commercial sector. They describe themselves as proud Brummies with a shared passion for the city and all the creativity it inspires. Their joint proposal was one of over 30 ideas put forward before the pandemic to give the wall a new look. Luke and Anna’s proposal for the theme of ‘Green in the City’ features a series of Birmingham landmarks and historical events influenced by the Brutalist architecture genre,

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particularly the concrete murals of sculptor William Mitchell. Large, stylised trees provide a recurring theme throughout the painting, which invites people to pick out well-known city buildings, public artworks and key events. Speaking about the project, Anna said: “We feel that the wall brings life and vibrancy to Colmore Business District. It captures imaginations and provokes conversations. It encourages escapism, a moment of still in the city as people stop to take photos and ponder upon the references and meaning of the artwork. “While working on the wall, we really enjoyed overhearing conversations about people’s interpretations of the design. Children in particular, really enjoyed spotting

the urban creatures. We feel that the art wall creates a positive impression, adding a much needed contrast to what was quite a dark span of wall. The piece is located in a very prominent location. It can clearly be seen by passing traffic on the main road. It works well as a new land mark for the area.” The duo have been touched by the positive comments they received during the commission, with people stopping to ask questions and tell them how much they felt it cheered up the area. “It feels like the artwork has increased people’s pride in the area and Brum,” added Anna. “We are so chuffed that we were chosen for this project and really thank the BID for their support.”

Pictured: Familiar Birmingham landmarks recreated on the Livery Street wall by Window Artists Anna and Luke Left: Anna and Luke with Mel Williams and Mike Mounfield of Colmore BID

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The Birmingham School of Art: A pioneering centre of culture CATHERINE HENDRICK CHARTS THE STORY OF ONE OF THE CITY’S MOST ILLUSTRIOUS ARTISTIC CENTRES On a cold February day in 1894 two men approached a handsome red-brick Victorian building in Birmingham’s Margaret Street. They were no ordinary visitors. One was the world-famous designer and political activist William Morris and the other the renowned Birminghamborn pre-Raphaelite artist Edward Burne-Jones. The purpose of their visit was to hand out prizes and inspire the next generation of talent at the Birmingham School of Art. Their arrival illustrated just how important the school, which was the UK’s first public art school, had become. By the late 19th century it was the leading centre for the pioneering Arts and Crafts movement which transformed the design and manufacture of everything from buildings to jewellery.

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In 1878 Morris agreed to act as president of the school for two years. It was the start of a relationship which lasted two decades, during which time he worked as a lecturer and examiner. He also commissioned work from the school’s students. Burne-Jones was also a regular visitor along with Walter Crane, another champion of Arts and Crafts,

who taught at the school. While Birmingham’s landscape was rapidly being transformed by the industrial revolution the school stood as a beacon of light for the Arts and Craft movement. The movement opposed the perceived diminishment of the decorative arts by the arrival of mass production and railed against the conditions in which goods were produced. Fuelled by liberal ideas of civic pride, non-conformism and a desire for change, the school’s enlightened management and supporters turned it into a centre for Arts and Crafts ideals. The appointment of the foreward

Local History Left: The Life Class, Birmingham School of Art,1888. It includes many female artists, including Kate and Myra Bunce. Kate appears to be in the middle of the three seated women in the middle row on the right, with Myra seated alone, middle row, to the left of the picture Picture: Birmingham Museums Below left: Works by Kate and Myra Bunce

thinking Edward R.Taylor as headmaster in 1877 marked its transformation. It was Taylor and the school’s chairman and architect, John Henry Chamberlain, who persuaded William Morris to become its president. Birmingham became the first art school to incorporate Morris’ ideas into its curriculum and introduced the revolutionary idea of teaching the skills of design and manufacturing together. Students were expected to turn their ideas into finished products rather than just drawing them. The city’s success in both these areas is reflected in its coat of arms which features two figures – one representing art and the other industry. Birmingham’s art school was radical not just for its art but for promoting creativity for all and many of its students were women, which was unusual for the time. While the Victorian age was initially dominated by male artists like the PreRaphaelites the Birmingham School produced a number of important female artists who designed some of the most arresting illustrations of the 1890s. They included Mary Newill, Florence Rudland and Celia Levetus. Georgie Gaskin met her husband Arthur while a student at the school and the pair became leading jewellers of the Arts and Crafts movement. Other successful female students were Birmingham’s own ‘PreRaphaelite’ sisters Kate and Myra Bunce. Kate, a painter and poet who was born in 1856, was a prize-winning student whose paintings appeared

at the Royal Academy and major exhibitions all over England. You may have spotted her most famous works at Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery. Kate painted The Keepsake and Melody and her older sister Myra, who was born in 1854, made the beautiful metal frames. In another example of its foreward thinking approach Birmingham School of Art encouraged both men and women to create work in a variety of materials. It’s believed this sparked Myra’s interest in metalworking which led her to create ornate hand-beaten picture frames and jewellery. She was also a talented painter, who exhibited at the Royal Academy. In the 1890s the school was home to an informal collective of painters and craftspeople associated with the Arts and Crafts Movement known as the Birmingham Group. Its members, who all studied or taught at the school, formed one of the last outposts of late Romanticism and were an important link between the last of the Pre-Raphaelites and the new Symbolist movement. Other illustrious alumni who later attended the school include English cartoonist and kinetic sculpture designer, Rowland Emett, who created the elaborate inventions of Caractacus Potts for the film Chitty Chitty Bang Bang, American architect Rose Connor,

who’s recognised as one of the first and most successful female architects of the 20th century, was also a student there along with British artist and film director Ian Ronald Emes, who was Pink Floyd’s original animator. The School of Art originally had its roots in the Birmingham Government School of Design, which was opened in 1843 as part of a national attempt to improve quality in design. It was funded by some of the city’s industrial and civic forefathers. The Grade-1 listed building in Margaret Street opened in 1885 on land donated by the Colmore family. It cost £21,254 to build and the money was provided by local philanthropist Louisa Ryland and the Tangye brothers, engine manufacturers whose work helped launch Brunel’s steamship the SS Great Easter. Two years later the school’s headmaster persuaded the Town Council to take it over and expand it to create the country’s first municipal college of art. An associated School of Architecture was formed in 1909 and received recognition from the Royal Institute of British Architects in 1923. Today it’s recognised globally for developing students’ visual art and design skills and is part of Birmingham City University’s Faculty of the Arts, Design and Media.

Above: The School of Art, Margaret Street

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Wellbeing

Employers should invest in educating employees in financial wellbeing ZACH FAIRBANKS, CO-FOUNDER OF WELLBEING IN YOUR OFFICE SHARES USEFUL TIPS TO HELP YOU MAKE DECISIONS REGARDING YOUR FINANCES WHAT IS FINANCIAL WELLBEING? So what it’s not is just about your pension, although that does form part of future financial wellbeing. ‘Financial well-being can be defined as a state of emotional and physical well being, produced by a set of conditions and capabilities. It includes making the most of an adequate income to enjoy a reasonable quality of life and having the skills and capabilities to manage money well, both on a daily basis and for the future’ (MAS 2015). It’s not about telling people what to do with their money but to empower them with the knowledge and tools to make decisions regarding their finances that will best suit their lives for now and for the future. WHAT IS THE CURRENT SITUATION AMONGST EMPLOYEES AND THEIR FINANCIAL WELLBEING? According to a recent CIPD report, one in four workers report that money worries have affected their ability to do their job and 19% of employees have lost sleep worrying about their finances (CIPD 2017). This will clearly have a detrimental effect on an employee’s focus and

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resilience leading to absenteeism and ultimately costing a business reduced sales and profit due to lower productivity and inaccuracy from tired and distracted employees. WHAT FACTORS CAUSE THIS? Employees and especially young people who have entered the job market with large higher education debts are tending to adopt a ‘live for the day’ mentality. Higher house prices, flattened wages and higher education costs have meant that young people are finding it difficult to imagine saving for a deposit for a house and starting a family. A ‘spend for today’ mentaity is adopted. A lack of knowledge on basic budgeting, saving for emergencies and balancing debts are contributing factors. Financial wellbeing issues are being seen across varying income amounts so it’s not just with low income earners that issues are existing. WHAT CAN EMPLOYERS DO? It’s in an employer’s interest to have financial savvy employees who know how to look after their own finances. Their mental and physical health will be improved therefore reducing

absenteeism and lack of productivity due to inaccuracy and fatigue. Therefore employers should invest in educating their employees. WHAT CAN EMPLOYEES DO? Notice if you are burying your head in the sand about your finances. If so, ask for help from your HR department, knowledgable friends and family or see the contact list below for advice. Little and often saving can amount to substantial savings after months and years and often it’s from the little and often spending we do that we can easily create these savings. Budgeting – understanding your income versus your outgoings. Sometimes even just the knowledge of this is enough to improve a person’s wellbeing even if nothing needs change. Often though, things can be changed to improve our ability to save money. Wellbeing in Your Office provides such courses on Financial Wellbeing including introduction sessions and 4 session courses. Visit wellbeinginyouroffice.com/ Money Advice Service www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk Debt Advice Foundation www.debtadvicefoundation.org National Debtline www.nationaldebtline.org

Charity Profile

You can help improve lives of children living in extreme poverty Colmore Business District is renowned for its law and financial service businesses but did you know it is also home to a number of life-changing charities too? Here, Catherine Hendrick takes a look at The Boparan Charitable Trust, which is based in Colmore Row Fancy abseiling down the side of No. to those in need and works directly 1 Colmore, following in the footsteps with the families it helps. of golfing legends or scoring a goal It says the time it takes to approve at Wolverhampton Wanderers FC? grants under £5,000 is between two These are just some of the and four weeks. fundraising events the Boparan If you would like to help but Charitable Trust has organised to abseiling off the side of a building to help children with disabilities, life raise money doesn’t appeal there are limiting conditions and those living in other ways to get involved. extreme poverty. You could donate to its Coronavirus Over the past ten years the charity Hardship Appeal, which it has set says it has helped improve the lives up to provide food and clothing to of more than 75,000 children across families who have found themselves the country. isolated and under financial pressure It’s provided specialist because of the pandemic. equipment, including The charity also The charity wheelchairs, trikes and welcomes volunteers has funded an toys, to families in need who can offer their outside play and funded therapies time and skills. to help children’s The Trust works garden for children speech, language and with major at Heartlands movement. companies and Hospital’s High The charity also small independent supports hospitals, Dependency Unit businesses who are hospices and community looking to expand organisations. their corporate social Each year the Boparan Trust responsibility policies or just treats children with special needs want to put something back into from Birmingham’s Victoria School to their local community. a dream trip to Disney Land, Florida. It has also developed partnerships The charity has also funded an with suppliers and other charitable outside play garden for children organisations which aim to improve being treated at Heartlands young peoples’ lives. Hospital’s High Dependency Unit and helped transform the children’s The Boparan Charitable Trust ward at Good Hope Hospital by is based at Colmore Court, 9 providing money for a refurbishment. Colmore Row. For information visit The Boparan Trust prides itself on www.theboparancharitabletrust. being able to provide grants quickly com or call 0121 214 9364.

Chris Brown of Colmore BID taking part in a Boparan Trust charity abseil Pictures: Edwin Ladd

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Hospitality News

‘Dine Alpine’ at District’s Bavarian newcomer COOK HAUS AND BIER PALACE CONCEPT TO LAUNCH IN CITY CENTRE THIS AUTUMN Most of us have missed our favourite restaurants over the past 18 months or so but on the plus side it has provided the opportunity for new establishments to formulate plans for tantalising our taste buds now that circumstances permit. ‘We’re Paradise Birmingham is no creating a retreat exception and from the modern has attracted its latest dining world where we invite experience in guests to discover the shape of Albert’s Schloss, new things and revel the Bavarian style in the wünder of our restaurant and magnificent wünderbar which will be opening in unique ‘Cook Haus Schloss’ November, courtesy and Bier Palace’ concept of the Manchester-based in the heart of Birmingham. company Mission Mars. Albert’s Schloss will become the It’s time to dine alpine at the fourth new leisure venue to commit Schloss Cook Haus which serves up to Paradise after Vinoteca, Dishoom indulgent alpine dishes all day long. and Rosa’s Thai. On the beverage front the very best Roy Ellis, CEO of Mission Mars, European biers are available but the said: “Our establishment’s proposition also extends to cocktails namesake, Prince Albert, Queen and their very own alpine schnapps. Victoria’s main squeeze, championed You could do wurst than to try them! truth, beauty, freedom and love. Directly overlooking Centenary Launched into many years of Way and Centenary Square, the mourning by his untimely death, 10,000 sq ft new space will allow Queen Victoria named buildings up Albert’s Schloss to establish its and down the country in his honour.

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“Albert’s Schloss (or palace) in Birmingham will celebrate the beloved Prince’s values every day and all night long. We’re creating a retreat from the modern world where we invite guests to discover new things, celebrate one another and revel in the wünder of our magnificent Schloss. “Influenced by our travels across Bavaria, Bohemia and Alpine European retreats, expect roaring fires, raucous musical performances, tankards of Europe’s finest biers and robust Bavarian food in our wonderful Paradise surroundings. Prost!”

Hospitality News Grand Hotel is regional winner in Sunday Times travel guide...

The Grand Hotel Birmingham has been crowned Regional Winner: Central England in the Sunday Times Best Places to Stay Guide. Housed in one of Birmingham’s most iconic buildings on Colmore Row, the hotel is a Grade II* listed building. Following a £50million refurbishment, the hotel re-opened in May 2021 to include 185 bedrooms and suites, Madeleine cocktail bar, Isaac’s New York-style restaurant, the unique Grand Ballroom and an additional nine meeting and event spaces. Susan d’Arcy says in the guide: “The UK’s second city now has a fittingly smart hotel with a New York-style

cocktail bar and brasserie... service at the Grand is warm, friendly, efficient and worthy of a gold medal.” The guide is split into eight regions: London, Southeast, Southwest, Central, East, North, Wales and Scotland. Peter Kienast, The Grand Hotel Birmingham’s General Manager, said: “This accolade pays tribute to the illustrious pedigree of the hotel; to the care and attention to detail that went into its refurbishment; and it is testament to the passion and dedication of our wonderful team.” To book hotel accommodation or a table in Madeleine or Isaac’s, visit thegrandhotelbirmingham.co.uk

...AND THE LAUNCH PARTY IS A NIGHT LIKE NO OTHER! VIP guests gathered to celebrate the reopening of The Grand Hotel. On arrival guests were greeted with Perrier Jouet champagne. The evening featured supper in Isaac’s, the New York style brasserie and a performance from Sophie Ellis-Bextor in the ballroom, right.

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Hospitality News MEANWHILE, A FEW YARDS AWAY ON BENNETTS HILL...

NEW LEASE OF LIFE FOR CHARACTER BUILDING

Self-service wine at new District bar Vagabond A new wine bar opens its doors in Birmingham this autumn. Situated in the heart of the Business District, award-winning wine bar brand, Vagabond is opening its first site outside of London. Vagabond will be offering self-serve wine, with over 100 wines available by the glass. The 200 capacity bar will offer guests a selection of wines from around the world – as well as a choice of 10 self-poured draught beers, spirits, a cocktail menu and nibbles – including Vagabond’s own English Wines that are made in its Urban Winery in South West London. All wines are available via Vagabond’s self-dispensing wine machines, which the brand has pioneered since opening its first wine bar in Fulham in 2010. The machines can be controlled via an app on guests’ phones. At 3 Colmore Row, Vagabond’s newest venue will make the most of the building’s rich heritage. Formerly

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a bank, the new bar will breathe new life into some of the existing original features; even transforming its old vault into a private tasting room. Its senior team is looking forward to the brand’s Midlands debut – in particular, Vagabond’s Managing Director, Matt Fleming, who grew up in Birmingham. Speaking about the launch, Matt said: “We’re seriously thrilled to be opening our newest bar in Birmingham. My own love for the city aside; it has one of the best food and drink scenes in the UK and we think Vagabond will fit in perfectly with its wine-loving residents. The growth of the F&B sector in the city over the years is truly exciting, and we can’t wait to be a part of its future. Plus, now my mom has somewhere to enjoy a great glass of wine!” Vagabond Birmingham will launch this autumn and will be open seven days a week. To find out more about Vagabond, visit www. vagabondwines.co.uk

Opening of Nude creates 50 new jobs A new destination hospitality venue has opened in the Business District following a £1 million investment from its West Midlands based owners – creating more than 50 jobs. Nude Bar & Grill has opened its doors at 38 Bennetts Hill. The venue is spread over four floors including a bar, restaurant and champagne lounge, with the vision being to bring a modern fusion restaurant with an Asian influence to the city centre. Book via bookingsbirmingham@ nude-barandgrill.co.uk

Hospitality News

Top chefs speak out about VAT rate issues COLMORE BID SIGNS LETTER CAMPAIGNING FOR CHANGE Top chefs, restaurateurs and owners is calling for several measures to be from across the region have joined implemented: forces with Greater Birmingham n Maintaining a long-term reduction Chambers of Commerce to voice in rates of VAT in a bid to drive concerns over the imminent reversal consumer demand over the 12 next of VAT rate reductions. months In a letter to Chancellor Rishi n Extending the current business Sunak, the Chamber, Colmore BID rates relief system beyond March and well-known hospitality industry 2022 for an additional six months figures such as Business Districtto ease the huge cost pressures that based TV chef Glynn hospitality firms are facing Purnell are calling for n Using the upcoming an extension to the Autumn Budget to rates reduction in fundamentally reform ‘It’s essential the a bid to drive the outdated consumer business rates Government bring demand. system to create forward business rate The letter a platform which – signed by will encourage reform to ease the more than 30 investment and massive overheads representatives business growth from the across the industry. businesses are hospitality and Chamber viceexperiencing’ dining sector president Deb Leary, – also urges the who joined a number of Chancellor to use his top chefs and restauranteurs Autumn Budget to reform the at Simpsons in Edgbaston to “outdated” business rates system. launch the appeal, said: “Whilst we A temporary reduced VAT rate of 5 recognise the unparalleled support per cent that was introduced to help businesses have received during the hospitality and tourism firms through pandemic, the damaging impact the COVID-19 crisis is due to expire of COVID-19 has been particularly this Friday (1 October). pronounced across the hospitality However, the Chamber says the industry. pandemic has had a ‘pronounced “As a Chamber we are delighted to effect’ on the hospitality industry and be working alongside the hospitality

Glynn Purnell (Purnells), Alex Claridge (The Wilderness), Adam Stokes (Adam’s), Jayne O’Malley (The Edgbaston), Brad Carter (Carters of Moseley), Raj Kandola (head of policy, GBCC). Front - Deb Leary (Chamber vice-president) and Andreas Antona (Simpsons)

industry across Greater Birmingham as we call on the Government to do everything it possibly can to help the sector get back on its feet and firing again as we emerge from the pandemic. In particular, maintaining a long-term reduction in VAT will play a vital role in fuelling demand and safeguarding thousands of jobs across the industry. “Ultimately, it’s essential the Government also bring forward business rate reform to ease the massive overheads businesses are experiencing in order to facilitate a return to growth in the long term.” Glynn Purnell, proprietor and head chef at Purnell’s restaurant, said: “We definitely need breathing space before VAT goes up again. “We are going through a honeymoon period at the moment with many people treating themselves to a nice meal out to compensate for not being able to take the holiday they would like. “But that will not last forever and we need help to return to pre-pandemic levels in the long term. We hope that the government will recognise that.”

Read the full list of signatories to the Chamber campaign at the Colmore BID website

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THE BIG PICTURE The Grand Hotel’s £45 million restoration and refurbishment was signed-off in style with a lavish launch party and recognition from The Sunday Times (see page 29). Housed in one of Birmingham’s most iconic buildings on Colmore Row, The Grand is a Grade II* listed building. The hotel opened its doors, revealing its stunning restoration and refurbishment, to the public on Tuesday 18 May. Retaining the building’s French Renaissance exterior, Victorian and Arts & Crafts features the restoration also includes a new penthouse suite with spectacular views across St Phillip’s Cathedral and the city beyond. Guests can stay in one of the hotel’s 185 guest rooms and suites; meet and drink in Madeleine, the hotel’s glamorous cocktail bar where Afternoon Tea is also served; or book a table in Isaac’s, the New-York inspired brasserie-style restaurant.

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Colmore Life - Autumn 2021

Articles inside

Colmore Life - Interview: Prit Sagoo