The 238-room hotel will be within walking distance of New Street Station

Council officials have approved plans for a 25-storey hotel in Birmingham designed by Glenn Howells.

BLOC Grand Central will be built on a site currently occupied by a 1960s office block.

The 238-room hotel will be within walking distance of New Street Station and the Grand Central shopping precinct.

The Southside development at 32-34 Hill Street is part of an ongoing multi-million pound investment by the hotel chain in Birmingham city centre.

Cllr Tahir Ali, the cabinet member for development, transport and the economy, said: “The whole area cries out for redevelopment and I think this will act as a catalyst.”

The council’s planning committee report said: “The scheme is of the highest quality in terms of architectural form, detail and material. In particular, the facade and top of the building are well considered.

“Moreover, the double height entrance lobby and cafe restaurant would enliven the base of the building and be an attractive destination.”

Work on site is anticipated to begin in summer 2017.

 

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