Birmingham Central Heart

Across the U.K., city centres are evolving from retail-led destinations into mixed-use neighbourhoods that support living, working, and leisure. Like many cities anchored by historic retail cores, central Birmingham now faces rising vacancies as shopping habits shift toward experience-led environments. To remain competitive and resilient, the city needed to reimagine its central district with new housing, workplaces, and cultural activity — creating an urban experience that attracts investment and supports long-term growth.

Birmingham Central Heart is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform four hectares of underutilised commercial and retail space within the city’s core. Working closely with Birmingham City Council, Sphere Group, and the collective partnership of landowners and developers, Gensler’s proposed vision links eight key sites through new public spaces and green urban routes, creating a vibrant neighbourhood activated day and night. Positioned near the future High-Speed rail (HS2) Curzon Street Station, the strategy strengthens Birmingham’s city centre as a connected, attractive destination.

The Birmingham Central Heart vision positions the city centre for long-term growth by introducing new homes, jobs, workplaces, and public spaces within a highly connected urban district. This transformation lays the foundation for a greener, more accessible city centre, while strengthening its role as a national business and cultural destination. By creating a thriving mixed-use neighbourhood, the project enhances the city’s appeal for residents, visitors, and long-term investment.