Skip to main content

Historic Jewellery Quarter Tunnel Approved For Retrofit Use

Historic Jewellery Quarter Tunnel Approved For Retrofit Use

GNA have recently received planning approval for the transformation of a historic Victorian subway tunnel on Pitsford Street in the heart of Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter.

Our proposal to redevelop the historic Victorian subway tunnel, located adjacent to our recently completed project The Goodsyard, has been approved with plans to bring the vacant structure back to life for Class E use. The initiative aims to revitalise the exposed tunnel retaining wall, adding vibrancy to the new public square as part of The Goodsyard development.

Dating back to the 19th Century, the subway tunnel has remained vacant since the 1950s, but the new proposal seeks to breathe new life into the historic structure. Historical maps from 1888 identify the tunnel, linking the railway line to the south side of the site by the Goods Shed, with the layout and arrangement mirroring its current state.

The redevelopment project, located within and adjacent to The Goodsyard Development, aims to enhance and integrate with existing communities through Class E use. The design is intended to complement the positive elements of the surrounding neighborhood structure and animate the area, while also linking access from the railway line to Pitsford Street.

The Goodsyard Development itself has already brought residential use to the area, along with ground-floor commercial units in the development open onto a public square that the proposed transformation will connect to, ensuring a seamless transition between the two spaces. The intention is to reignite the existing structure and make it a functional part of the public realm.

The plan for the redevelopment of the Victorian Subway Tunnel promises to not only preserve a piece of the city's history, but also create a vibrant and innovative space for the community to enjoy. GNA looks forward to commencing delivery in Q3 2024.