A new image showing progress on the long-awaited Beorma Quarter project in Digbeth has been released as the construction firm leading the project wins national recognition for the development.

The first phase of the development in Allison Street comprises a 108-bedroom Adagio apart-hotel and offices and an innovation centre in the neighbouring former Digbeth Cold Storage building while later plans include a 27-storey landmark tower.

The photo above shows the serviced apartments taking shape and the former storage building which was designed in 1899 by Ernest Bewlay for the Linde British Refrigeration Company.

The first phase is due for completion this summer and glazing panels and façade brickwork have now been installed, along with interior finishes including kitchens and bathrooms.

BAM Construct, which is leading the project for investor Salhia, has put out the photograph as the company is recognised for the way it is carrying out the mixed-use development.

Site hoardings designed by local school children to celebrate Birmingham's history now adorn part of the construction site which helped BAM secure national recognition.

BAM project manager Rob Bassett with the Beorma Quarter hoardings designed by children from Nelson Primary School
BAM project manager Rob Bassett with the Beorma Quarter hoardings designed by children from Nelson Primary School

The company, whose Midlands arm is based in Solihull, was rated as 'exceptional' in three categories and 'excellent' in two more by the Considerate Constructors Scheme.

Monitor Phil Power said: "Hoardings have been used as a backdrop for expressionist paintings from nearby Nelson Primary School.

"Their task was to express in art form what Birmingham means to them individually. The cross section of exhibits is extraordinary but, through a child's eyes, self-explanatory and meaningful."

BAM education co-ordinator Phil Eves said the collaboration with Nelson Primary School was just one way the contractor was looking to integrate with the community.

"When this development is finished it will make quite an impact on the Birmingham skyline. We want local people to feel part of it, and to take pride in it," he said.

"The pupils came up with different paintings to express their pride in the city - from the word Beorma made up of different national flags, to images of HP Sauce and Bird's Custard."