New Digbeth Residential Project: 176-183 Moseley Street
A new 131-bed apartment scheme in Digbeth goes to Planning Committee later this week - and it's recommended for approval. This is 176-183 Moseley Street.
‘176-183 MOSELEY STREET’
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Recommendation: Approval subject to a S106 agreement
Brought forward by Euro Property Investments, 176-183 Moseley Street is a PRS (Private Rental Scheme) development of 131 one, two and duplex apartments in the ever-evolving Digbeth district of Birmingham.
Positioned at the junction of Moseley Street and Alcester Street, the development will see demolition of a rundown industrial site before a part 6, part 7 storey new build can commence.
The development encompasses the emerging Rea Valley Urban Quarter (more below) and will be set around a landscaped internal courtyard, with apartments boasting balconies and open terraces.
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Yeme Architects have designed this contemporary apartment block, with the project framed to maximise the potential of the site by aiding much-needed regeneration.
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The mix of apartments will deliver a total of 66 one and 65 two & duplex bedroom units; with the proposal meeting a wide range of housing needs through the addition of larger duplex units, and a range of sizes for the one and two bedroom apartments.
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The new development will repair the damage caused by the current crop of buildings by redefining the street and bringing a much needed visual benefit to the area.
The massing will been subdivided into distinct blocks to help reduce its scale on adjacent streets. It'll wrap entirely around the footprint of the site, allowing for a communal courtyard facility, with balcony space; each unit will have some element of private outdoor space, be it balcony or terrace.
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Given the proximity to the Eastside-leg of the Midland Metro Tram - set to kick off in 2021, provision has been made for 188 secure cycle spaces and just 19 vehicles. Both will be situated on the lower ground floor, accessed via Moseley Street.
Two pedestrian access points will be included - the first from Moseley Street via steps, and the second from Alcester Street, where access to the inner courtyard will be provided. Lifts will serve all floor levels.
Interestingly, Birmingham City Council's Transportation Department have requested a S278 agreement requesting a new footway crossing and a redundant one reinstated prior to development being occupied.
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AFFORDABILITY
The developer has explained that their return would not be sufficient to support 35% affordable housing, and one that would make the development unviable.
Nevertheless, 13 Low Cost Home Ownership dwellings (8 one & 5 two bed) will be available at 80% of market value – providing a minimum of 10% on site affordable housing.
FIRST UP: DEMOLITION
The existing site contains poor quality buildings and a large forecourt ruled by car parking.
Small wholesale, manufacturing and retail businesses currently operate from these units. Plans will result in the loss/relocation of 6 businesses - a loss of circa.20 jobs.
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REA VALLEY URBAN QUARTER
The Rea Valley Urban Quarter SPD encompasses the front part of this site, and offers a once-in-a-lifetime prospect for the City.
But what is it?
It's an aspiration that seeks to create a linear park/green leafy space spanning the length of Moseley Street, eventually linking up with the future Smithfield redevelopment & Highgate Park.
It will attempt to eradicate vehicular traffic other than for access to properties along Moseley Street and endorse increased footfall along the route.
The River Rea is a notoriously under-utilised asset in the city and one with the potential to act as a major catalyst for high-quality regeneration schemes.
Aspirations include opening-up the river bank to create an exceptional public space with sustainable new residential and commercial developments either side.
And this is where 176-183 Moseley Street comes in. Due to the location, the design response from Yeme has seen the building set-back to incorporate greenery and, together with balcony spaces facing the street, reflects the future ambitions for the creation of a green and active street.
You can read the draft document here: https://www.birminghambeheard.org.uk/economy/rea-valley-spd/
176-183 Moseley Street goes to Planning Committee on July 16th 2020.
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Words by Stephen Giles with artists Impressions from Yeme Architects.