“It’s refreshing working with a client like Neil who is as obsessive about detail as we are. We have literally spent hours thinking about each component of the project, including the listed school building, the former headmaster’s residence, the new building and the new public space.
“The Heath Road Board School, built in 1891 is a listed building of immense quality and presence. K4 are privileged to be working on this fine building, designed by Martin and Chamberlain, who were also architects for the Grade I listed Margaret Street School of Art and Grade II listed Oozells Street School – now the Ikon Gallery.
“Although in a state of disrepair, we have painstakingly surveyed every inch of the building with the intention of restoring it to its former glory.
‘‘The vibrant and contemporary language of the new building contrasts with the listed building – clearly legible as the 21st century intervention on the site.”
Mr Edginton added that he was already at advanced stages with two restaurants – one from an up-market national chain that currently has no presence in the city and the other a new project from a well known local operator – which reflected the potential for the development.
“This is a project which will see more than £5 million invested in transforming a problem site and delivering new high quality public realm which we believe can be a real catalyst for the further regeneration of Harborne and make the scheme and the wider area a real visitor attraction.”
He said he hoped to start on site around the end of the third quarter, start of the fourth quarter this year with the first phase complete by the end of next year and the new build completed by 2014.
