MCR Property Group has drawn up proposals to bring Birmingham’s William Booth Centre back into use, transforming the former hostel and adjoining Sanctuary building into much needed rental accommodation close to the city centre.
The William Booth Centre has been out of use for some time. MCR’s proposals would give the property a new purpose, directing investment into existing buildings to help meet Birmingham’s housing needs.
The current proposals would refurbish approximately 46,000 sq ft of accommodation on Shadwell Street, creating around 67 rental homes, comprising 19 studios, 24 one bedroom and 24 two bedroom apartments, subject to the necessary consents and final design.
The former Salvation Army hostel previously provided accommodation for up to 74 residents. MCR’s plans would retain and invest in the existing buildings while adapting them for long term residential use.
Located in the Gun Quarter, close to Birmingham’s central business district and alongside the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal, the site offers an opportunity to bring more residential accommodation into an established urban neighbourhood.
The proposals reflect MCR’s approach to identifying buildings with unrealised potential and investing in their refurbishment and long term use. At the William Booth Centre, the focus is on turning underused space into homes for people living and working in Birmingham.
Martin Brown, Director of Commercial Property at MCR Property Group, said:
“Birmingham needs more homes, and bringing existing buildings back into use has an important part to play in meeting that demand. The William Booth Centre has been out of use for some time. We see an opportunity to change that and give it a productive future.
“This is a substantial building close to the city centre, with the potential to provide much needed accommodation for people who want to live and work in Birmingham. Our focus is on making that potential a reality through considered refurbishment and homes that work for the people living in them.
“The commercial opportunity and the benefit to the city are closely aligned. Investing in an underused property can create a viable residential asset, support the surrounding neighbourhood and add to the supply of rental homes.”
The final design and delivery programme will be developed as the proposals progress, subject to the necessary approvals.
