The canal-side building in Digbeth, which dates back to the 1930s, will be the home of the broadcaster’s radio, TV and news teams in the city – relocating from their current base in the city’s Mailbox complex. It is understood that BBC teams such as The Archers, Asian Network, Newsbeat, Radio West Midlands and Midlands Today will be based there.

As part of the regeneration scheme, the historic factory will have its character and features retained with part new build and part substantial refurbishment providing ‘outstanding sustainability and environmental credentials’, which will include BREEAM ‘Outstanding’ and EPC ‘A’ ratings.

The site was sold on behalf of the Gooch Estate by Savills, who, jointly with their development partner Stoford, have worked with various stakeholders across Digbeth, including Birmingham City Council, Homes England, HS2, Midland Metro, Transport for West Midlands (TfWM), West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and other landowners.

The refurb project will be led by Birmingham-based developer Stoford, providing c.84,000 sq ft of Grade A office space by the BBC in 2026 – to become a broadcasting hub known as ‘The Tea Factory’. BAM Construction has been appointed as the lead contractor to deliver the scheme which is majority-funded by Aviva Investors, with a grant from Birmingham City Council. Savills Development team represented the Gooch Estate and investment, office agency, economics and building and project consultancy also advised on the transaction. mfg Solicitors advised on the deal led by Beth Margetson.

Emma Prowse, associate director in the Midlands Development team at Savills, says: “This is a major project for the city of Birmingham, the significance of which will be realised for years to come. The relocation of the BBC is significant for both Digbeth and Birmingham as a whole and will act as a major catalyst for regeneration of the immediate and wider areas.

“Situated in the city’s ‘Creative Quarter’ immediately to the south of the new HS2 terminal, which is under construction) the site will benefit from exceptional connectivity. Grand Central (New Street) and Moor Street train stations, the City’s prime bus station and road infrastructure (A38 Aston Expressway and A41) are all in close proximity. The regeneration will deliver outstanding sustainability and environmental credentials as well as a state-of-the-art production facility that will provide a fantastic new home for the BBC in the Midlands.”