Law firm Shoosmiths hosted a drinks reception to mark the grand opening of the newly renovated Colmore Square in the heart of Birmingham’s business quarter.
The event, at Shoosmiths’ offices at 2 Colmore Square, was organised by Colmore Business District and was attended by almost 100 members of the city’s business community.
Colmore Business District (CBD) said the Colmore Square project was the first of its kind undertaken solely by a business improvement district (BID) in the city.
A variety of enhancement work over the past four months has been carried out at the square between Colmore Row and Steelhouse Lane.
Changes include new landscaping, planting, lighting and benches alongside a chess garden with two stone tables and chessboards.
Head of Shoosmiths Birmingham office Jason Jackson said: “This project has resulted in the entire transformation of the area. “The renovated Colmore Square not only does justice to the architectural excellence of many of the surrounding buildings but is sensitive to the practical needs of those visiting and working in the area.
“CBD has done a great job of managing this project and we are pleased and proud to have played our part and to have hosted the launch.”
Vice-chairman of CBD Rob Valentine said: “The success of this project shows us what a clear vision and a BID working with its members can achieve in this city.
“The area is now a more attractive place to visit and do business thanks to the new-look square. The improvements also complement the city-centre Midland Metro tram extension which opens next spring alongside the square.”
Shoosmiths’ partner and chair of BPS Birmingham Leaders, Alex Bishop, added: “This type of project highlights the tangible results of businesses working together with the CBD to improve the physical environment of the city centre to make it an even more attractive place in which to work.”
The Colmore Square project was designed by Capita’s land planning team and construction work was led by the Landscape Group while Mace acted as project manager.
