PLANS to build the “world’s first” purely octagonal residential tower in Birmingham have been unanimously approved.
Members of Birmingham City Council’s planning committee voted in favour of the plans from Paradise Circus Limited Partnership for Octagon, part of the Paradise development in the city centre.
The development, designed by Glenn Howells Architects and Grant Associates, will see a 49-storey tower built off Great Charles Street Queensway and Paradise Circus.
Residents in each of the building’s 370 apartments will benefit from a 13m frontage with views over the city, and some eight per cent of the apartments are set to be made affordable – a total of 30.
A report to councillors says the colour of the building will appear to vary depending on light conditions and the angle of view – and the structure will have “subtle backlighting” at the top.
How the Octagon will look. Credit: Paradise Birmingham.
Following a consultation, the Ancient Monument Society (AMS) raised concerns about the building, stating it would be “inappropriate” given its proximity to the Jewellery Quarter Conservation Area and Colmore Row and Environs Conservation Area.
The report to councillors states: “The AMS objects to the application due to the significant impacts the proposed development would have on the setting of a number of important historic buildings, structures and public spaces, particularly those immediately adjoining the Paradise Circus development site, including the grade I-listed Birmingham Town Hall; grade I-Hall of Memory, grade II* Council House, City Museum and Council House Extension; grade II Edward VII Statue; and grade II Baskerville House.
“A 49 storey building is entirely inappropriate for a site that borders two conservation areas and directly adjoins such a prominent group of important civic buildings.
“In order to preserve the special architectural and historic interest of the listed buildings and conservation areas, significant amendments are required to this application regarding the general scale and height of the proposed tower.”
But officers recommended the plans were approved, stating “the public benefits of the scheme demonstrably outweigh the less than substantial harm caused to the setting of nearby heritage assets”.
How the Octagon will look at night. Credit: Paradise Birmingham.
Speaking following the decision by councillors today, Rob Groves, regional director with Paradise development manager Argent, said:
“Octagon forms an integral part of Paradise, creating jobs, promoting skills, and providing much-needed new homes for the people of Birmingham in an exemplary setting.
“Our ambition for Octagon is to create a world class BtR [Build to Rent] apartment scheme for Birmingham and today is a major step forward to achieving this goal.