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Exploring the future of Birmingham's Roundhouse

We're working with the National Trust to look at the future use of the Roundhouse in Birmingham.

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If Birmingham is the nation’s ‘canal capital’ then the Roundhouse would be its city hall!
Simon Salem, marketing director

A consultation process has been launched to explore the possibility of redeveloping the Grade II* listed building as an urban outdoors hub.

The horseshoe shaped Roundhouse was built by the Corporation of Birmingham as a mineral and coal wharf in the 1870s and was originally used for stabling and storage. Located in Ladywood, the building is at the heart of Birmingham's canal system which has been regenerated as a vibrant network for pleasure craft, leisure and tourism.

The Roundhouse is owned by the Canal & River Trust which is keen to find new, creative uses to secure the historic building's future. The consultation will look at the possibility of redeveloping the building as a hub which people can use to get active outdoors, and to discover more about Birmingham's heritage.

Some of the ideas that are being explored include a cycle store and workshop, facilities for local people and commuters, catering, and a hub for local businesses.

Beccy Speight, Regional Director for the National Trust in Birmingham, said: “The survival of this unusual historic building in such a central location, and in an area that has largely been redeveloped, makes it stand out in a very modern city. It tells a fascinating part of Birmingham's story. It was originally a hub for the distribution of goods and the stabling of horses and there is an exciting opportunity to make it a modern day hub for those who want to actively explore and discover more about their city today. We'd love to help make that happen.”

Simon Salem, Marketing Director for the Canal & River Trust said: “If Birmingham is the nation's ‘canal capital' then the Roundhouse would be its city hall! This wonderful waterside landmark has been underused for far too long and we are determined to find a new community use for it which puts it back at the heart of the city's revitalised waterways. The Canal & River Trust and National Trust both want to celebrate, and reconnect people to, Birmingham's rich working heritage and we believe the Roundhouse offers an exciting opportunity for the city.”

The two trusts are consulting with various local organisations including Birmingham City Council and organisations that have an interest in the use of the canal and surrounding area.

Find more information about the consultation.

Last Edited: 19 March 2014

photo of a location on the canals
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