Site Context

1 Lancaster Circus is located to the north of Birmingham City Centre and is well-recognised as a key entry point into the city core.

Initially playing a part in Birmingham’s industrial history as Perryian Works, between the late 1950s into the 1970s the building and area was reconfigured with the construction of Lancaster Circus, and Queensway Flyover. 

For many years 1 Lancaster Circus served as a useful base for Birmingham City Council. However, in more recent times the building and the surrounding area has been identified as a location for growth and transformation.  

This is reflected in Birmingham City Council’s ‘Our Future City Plan 2040’, which identifies the site for major development alongside long-term ambitions to reconfigure the surrounding road network as part of a wider vision for a greener, brighter, future for the city.  

In 2021, Sama Investments agreed the acquisition of the surplus building from Birmingham City Council, with the council transitioning their workforce and physical presence at the premise since this point. 

The location of the site and its proximity to Aston University and Birmingham City University mean that it is a perfect place for Purpose-Built Student Accommodation provision within a landmark development. 

It can also support the growth and delivery of Birmingham Innovation Quarter, which forms part of the West Midlands Investment Zone. 

To help deliver against future ambitions we are seeking to re-imagine the site so that it better reflects the needs and ambitions of Birmingham.