A major mixed-use scheme in the heart of Birmingham City Centre has been given the green light.

Developer Hammerson has secured outline planning for the project, which will transform the current Martineau Galleries site into a thriving new neighbourhood, providing homes, workspace, hotel rooms and a new town square.

Along with over 1,300 new homes, Martineau Galleries will support 350 full-time construction jobs per year for the life of the project and deliver a £225m boost to Birmingham's economy.

The vibrant new neighbourhood will also provide a public realm, including a central square, boulevard and new residential streets, which will be accessible and sustainable. These spaces will be available for community and cultural events, and leisure activities such as pop-up bars, food trucks and performances from local groups.

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This also marks the first major scheme brought forward as part of Hammerson's City Quarters concept, which will see a host of city venues transformed into new neighbourhoods.

Robin Dobson, UK Director of Development and Project Management at Hammerson said: "We are pleased to confirm that our mixed-use masterplan for Martineau Galleries has been given a resolution to grant by Birmingham City Council. Hammerson has a strong track record in mixed-use placemaking and in delivering for Birmingham, having transformed the city centre with the opening of the iconic Bullring in 2003.

"Our plans for Martineau Galleries represent a step-change in our strategy, moving beyond pure retail, as we continue to deliver vibrant, continually evolving spaces, in and around thriving cities."

Leader of Birmingham City Council Cllr Ian Ward added: "The exciting Martineau Galleries project will support over 8,000 jobs and provide a significant boost to our city economy. It will also transform Dale End, creating a thriving new city centre neighbourhood."

(CM/MH)