Bruntwood SciTech Unveils Visionary Transformation for Birmingham's Cornerblock Hub

By Anushka Malhotra

1 minute 56 seconds

Investment

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Quick Read: Bruntwood SciTech is set to revitalize Birmingham's Cornerblock hub, focusing on wellness amenities and sustainable spaces to foster innovation-led businesses in the heart of the city. This initiative follows Bruntwood SciTech's substantial £500 million commitment to support the UK's innovation economy, with Birmingham identified as a priority location. The Cornerblock project aligns with the broader vision to create a £5 billion UK-wide portfolio supporting 2,600 high-growth businesses by 2032.

Bruntwood SciTech, a key player in the UK's innovation landscape, has announced an ambitious plan to revamp Cornerblock, a pivotal hub in Birmingham's city centre. The initiative aims to enhance tenant well-being, foster collaboration, and contribute to Birmingham's growing reputation as a thriving innovation hub.

Cornerblock's Comprehensive Transformation

The extensive refurbishment is scheduled to kick off in February, with completion expected by April. This strategic move follows Bruntwood SciTech's recent £500 million commitment, solidifying its dedication to fortify the UK's innovation ecosystem. Birmingham, identified as a priority city, is set to benefit significantly from this investment, with Cornerblock poised to play a central role in this transformative journey.

Key Components of the Transformation

1. Redesigned Communal Spaces: Estilo Interiors will lead the makeover, introducing a contemporary reception area, dynamic break-out zones, and versatile meeting spaces.

2. Wellness Integration: The refurbishment includes the addition of a studio and cardio gym, emphasizing tenant well-being and providing opportunities for fitness within the workspace.

3. Sustainable Transportation Support: A secure bike store with maintenance stations will be introduced, aligning with eco-friendly commuting options and sustainable practices.

4. Enhanced Changing Facilities: Refurbished changing rooms will be part of the upgrade, adhering to modern standards and enhancing tenant comfort.

Bruntwood SciTech's Vision for Birmingham

Rob Valentine, Regional Director – West Midlands for Bruntwood SciTech, expressed enthusiasm for the Cornerblock project, highlighting its significance in advancing the company's increased commitment to Birmingham. Positioned at the heart of Birmingham's central business district, Cornerblock is strategically poised to attract global, market-leading companies.

Valentine emphasized that the refurbishment aligns with Bruntwood SciTech's mission to facilitate connections, collaboration, and growth for innovation-led businesses. The central location of Birmingham, coupled with Cornerblock's prime positioning, makes it an ideal space for companies seeking innovative environments.

Expansion of the West Midlands Team

In alignment with its commitment to the region, Bruntwood SciTech has expanded its West Midlands team, appointing Moe Ali as Senior Asset Manager. Ali, bringing valuable experience from Oval Real Estate and Colliers, will play a crucial role in driving Bruntwood SciTech's transformation agenda across its Birmingham portfolio.

Ongoing and Upcoming Projects

The Cornerblock refurbishment is part of Bruntwood SciTech's broader strategy for Birmingham. Recent completions include Enterprise Wharf at the Innovation Birmingham campus, a significant addition doubling the campus's size, and the upcoming Birmingham Health Innovation Campus (BHIC), a collaboration with The University of Birmingham.

In the coming months, Bruntwood SciTech plans to extend its refurbishment efforts to other city center innovation hubs, reinforcing its commitment to Birmingham's innovation ecosystem.

Bruntwood SciTech's Cornerblock transformation signifies a pivotal moment in Birmingham's innovation journey. As the company continues to invest and revitalize key spaces, Birmingham is poised to emerge as a hub for cutting-edge businesses, collaborations, and advancements in science and technology.

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What's new

School of Coding Secures Investment to Launch UK’s First AI Learning Lab in Birmingham

A fast-growing West Midlands digital training firm has secured a six-figure investment to launch what it claims will be the UK’s first AI Learning Lab, supporting regional upskilling and job creation.

The School of Coding, founded in Wolverhampton, has received backing from the Midlands Engine Investment Fund II (MEIF II), via fund manager Frontier Development Capital (FDC). The funding will be used to fit out its new central Birmingham tech hub, expected to create 50 new jobs within the next year.

Founded in 2017, the company delivers digital skills education to both young people and professionals, offering courses in cybersecurity, software development, AI, health tech, and digital entrepreneurship. It also runs nationwide coding classes for children and works with schools, councils, and education providers.

The new lab will act as a centre for innovation and learning, equipping individuals and businesses with practical skills to adopt AI technologies responsibly and effectively.

Photo Credit: School of Coding

Manny Athwal, founder and CEO of School of Coding, said:

“AI is here to stay, and we want to help people use it ethically and productively. This new hub in Birmingham will democratise access to digital education and support both personal and business growth in the tech economy. We see this as the first of many tech hubs across the UK.”

The company now operates in 17 countries, with offices in Telford, Dublin, and India, employing nearly 300 people worldwide, including 95 in the UK.

This latest investment builds on a previous round from MEIF in 2023, reinforcing the British Business Bank’s commitment to supporting scale-up businesses in tech and innovation.

David Tindall, Senior Investment Manager at the British Business Bank, said:

“We’re proud to support a business that's actively addressing the digital skills gap and championing innovation. This second round of funding demonstrates MEIF II’s mission to back high-growth firms driving change.”

Ryan Cartwright, of Frontier Development Capital, added:

“Manny and his team are creating real impact through digital education. We’re excited to support the UK’s first AI Learning Lab – a step that will help more regional businesses benefit from emerging technologies.”

By Anushka Malhotra

23 Apr

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