Colmore Life - Spring 2026

COLMORE LIFE YOUR TEAM

SPRING 2026 WELCOME

Hello and welcome to the Spring 2026 edition of Colmore Life magazine!

2026 marks an important milestone for our organisation, as we reach halfway through our BID4 term. Over the coming months, we’ll be conducting a mid-term review, engaging with you, our levy payers, to ensure we remain aligned with your needs, priorities, and ambitions. Your input will help us stay on track and keep delivering what matters most.

We’re also excited to unveil our brandnew look, a bold identity that reflects the unique character of Colmorebalancing heritage with modernity, and signalling our bold ambitions for the future. This rebrand isn’t just cosmetic; it’s a statement of intent about who we are, where we’re heading and how we can represent you. You can read more about this from our Board Chair, Nicola Fleet-Milne, on page 4.

2026 brings so much to look forward to in our wonderful city. Birmingham Light Festival returns for its second year from 12 - 15 February and we’re immensely proud to be a core funder of this event that transforms the city into an illuminated spectacle of light artworks.

The European Athletics Championships, alongside a vibrant calendar of city events taking place this year, will bring renewed energy and connection to our city.

These moments remind us why Colmore is more than a business district, it’s a place where culture, commerce, and civic pride connect. This Spring 2026 issue is packed with key updates, business movements and exciting programming. I hope you enjoy reading it as much as we have enjoyed putting it together.

MICHELE

WILBY,

COLMORE

A DAY IN COLMORE

1 DISHOOM

Dishoom offers a warming start to the day in Chamberlain Square. The morning menu celebrates Bombay comfort food, with the famous Bacon Naan Roll the standout choice: soft naan, smoky bacon and a mellow chilli kick. Lighter options like granola or fruit keep things fresh.

One Chamberlain Sq, Birmingham B3 3AX

2 SEDULO SPACE

The new Sedulo Space provides a calm environment for getting ahead on emails. The former Zen Metro bar has been reimagined as a modern workspace inspired by Typhoo, Lloyds and Cadbury, giving the venue a Brummie identity. With Sedulo planning networking events, the space will become a useful hub for business.

73 Cornwall St, Birmingham B3 2DF

3 STRONG PILATES

Strong Pilates offers an energising break from the workday with sessions combining classic reformer Pilates and cardio bursts. The studio is bright, modern and motivating, with instructors who guide you through a full-body workout designed to build strength, endurance and focus.

63-65 Cornwall St, Birmingham B3 2EE SEE PAGE 27

4 LIQUOR STORE

Liquor Store is a goto destination for curated menswear on Colmore Row. The boutique champions craftsmanship and style, offering quality denim and everyday staples. The interior creates an easy browsing experience, while the team’s knowledge makes finding the right piece effortless.

27 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2BS SEE PAGE 29

5 TRILLIUM

Glynn Purnell’s and Phil Innes’s new Trillium restaurant delivers refined, seasonal dining in a smart Snowhill setting. The menu focuses on modern British dishes with thoughtful presentation and balanced flavours, whether you choose fish, meat or a creative vegetarian plate.

1 Snow Hill Queensway, Birmingham B4 6GH SEE PAGES 16-17

6 NEWHALL STREET TAVERN

Newhall Street

Tavern is a friendly, relaxed spot to end the day. Blending classic pub comfort with a smart modern feel, it offers a strong selection of beers, wines and spirits –plus shuffleboard! The atmosphere is easy-going, making it great for a quiet chat or a final unwind before heading home.

106-110 Edmund St, Birmingham B3 2ES

1. Image from Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/ veryveryquiet/3331363862/sizes/o/

1. Image from Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/ veryveryquiet/3331363862/sizes/o/

4. Tom Bird

4. Tom Bird

https://bytombird.com/five-st-philips

https://bytombird.com/five-st-philips

MORE THAN A BID, INTRODUCING: COLMORE BIRMINGHAM

BY NICOLA FLEET-MILNE, CHAIR OF THE BOARD

2. Verity Milligan

2. Verity Milligan

https://www.veritymilliganphotography.com/ projects#/birmingham-202223/

https://www.veritymilliganphotography.com/ projects#/birmingham-202223/

5.From this website

5.From this website

https://ruthmillington.co.uk/stained-glasswindows-birmingham-cathedral/

https://ruthmillington.co.uk/stained-glasswindows-birmingham-cathedral/

Colmore has always been more than a Business Improvement District.

Colmore is the cultural, civic and commercial heart of Birmingham. It’s a beautiful place, an enriched community, and the pulse of the city’s business life. But as the city evolves amidst its challenges, so must we.

In 2024, we began asking ourselves an important question: does our brand truly reflect who we are today, what we do, and where we are heading?

To answer that, we consulted with several District businesses as well as our public sector partners, cultural institutions, and Birmingham’s changemakers. We wanted to hear what Colmore means to you –your perceptions, aspirations, and ideas for the future.

You gave us lots to think about. You told us that “people don’t get BIDs, they get

3.

https://www.rossjukesphoto.co.uk/ birmingham-photography-portfolio

https://www.rossjukesphoto.co.uk/ birmingham-photography-portfolio

https://www.frasermcgee.co/1-chamberlainsq/

https://www.frasermcgee.co/1-chamberlainsq/

places”, and that you want Birmingham to be better represented on the national stage.

“This is Birmingham’s centre stage, and we’re proud to stand at the heart of it”

The overarching feedback was clear; our identity needed to better represent the vibrant, diverse communities we serve. As an organisation, we also needed to be bolder and more visible in our influence and delivery. We refreshed our brand architecture to introduce two distinct identities with clear roles. Birmingham Colmore replaces the former ‘Colmore BID’ in formal and strategic contexts: for our levy payers, our investors, and our engagement with national government and political stakeholders.

magazine title) will drive our lifestyle and cultural marketing strategy, showcasing events, food and drink, and the people and places that bring the ‘life’ to Colmore. We then commissioned a piece of work with Common Curiosity, a Birminghambased creative agency that shares our passion for place and purpose. The result? A new visual identity that perfectly balances heritage and modernity, the true essence of Colmore Business District.

Birmingham Colmore’s refreshed colour palette draws inspiration from the architecture and materials, and typefaces you see every day in Colmore: the stone, brick and glass that define our place, from our 18th-century Georgian streets to the multitude of new glossy developments. For Colmore Life, our lifestyle brand, the colours are brighter and bolder, reflecting the energy and experiences that make this area such a dynamic destination. This rebrand is so much more than a new look. It’s a statement of intent.

ABOUT OUR NEW TYPOGRAPHY

Rooted in the streets of Colmore, our logo takes its inspiration from the District itself. Its typography is shaped by the blend of traditional and contemporary lettering seen on local street signs, and by the contrast between modern buildings and historic architecture.

This is a place where heritage meets modernity, where tradition stands alongside the cutting edge, and where culture and commerce converge.

heritage subjects with modern ones

2. Contrast indoor and outdoor space 2.

The logo sits at the heart of our brand system. The division between ‘Col’ and ‘More’ creates a bold, flexible

3. 4. 6. 7. 8.

layout that celebrates the elements coming together to make Colmore distinctive.

Emphasising the word ‘More’, the split reflects the value we bring to everyday life, enhancing experiences for those who live, work, and visit the area.

Our typographic compositions are expressive, mirroring the interplay of old and new that defines Colmore’s character. Through the combination of contrasting typefaces, we capture a strong sense of place where culture

We’re being bolder in our mission and clearer in our role as both the influencer, representative, and the driving force behind what Birmingham needs to see next. Our influence extends far beyond our boundaries, and as the future of our city increasingly lies in the hands of the private sector, we are here to lead.

Finding

Colmore is built on culture, commerce, and civic leadership. Home to productive workplaces and vibrant spaces, access to diverse talent and excellent transport links, Colmore is the place where communities connect, clusters prosper, and life is enriched. We are Birmingham’s centre, and are proud to stand at the heart of it.

As we move forward, our promise is as follows: we will drive footfall, economic growth and quality of life that enriches everyone, whether you work here, live here, visit, or invest here.

If you share our passion for better places and a better Birmingham, I’d love to connect with you to join our mission. Together, we can deliver a better future for Birmingham.

DESIGNING THE WEST MIDLANDS

SANDEEP ON TRANSPORT, GROWTH AND CONNECTION

The Interim Executive Director of Transport for West Midlands and Birmingham Colmore Board Director on connectivity, collaboration and creating places that work for people and business.

Sandeep Shingadia has recently stepped into one of the West Midlands’ most influential transport roles, appointed Interim Executive Director for Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) following the role becoming vacant for the first time in eight years. Bringing nearly 30 years’ experience across strategic transport delivery, funding and partnerships, Sandeep takes on the position at a pivotal moment for the region, as major investment, regeneration and connectivity projects continue to reshape Birmingham and the wider West Midlands.

Congratulations on your appointment as Interim Executive Director for Transport for West Midlands. What does stepping into this leadership role mean to you personally, and how do you see it building on your previous work in strategic partnerships and delivery?

As a child, I always wanted to be an architect. While my career took a different direction, I still see myself as an architect – not of buildings, but of places. Transport is the lifeblood that

allows towns and cities to function, grow and prosper, connecting people to education, skills, jobs, homes, healthcare and leisure. These journeys move us all forward, and I’m immensely proud to lead the organisation at such an exciting time for the West Midlands.

I’ve been part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and TfWM journey since its inception, helping shape strategic transport priorities for the region. Partnerships are central to everything we do, spanning government, local authorities, businesses and industry. Delivery is equally vital, and stepping into this role means taking a holistic view across infrastructure and operations, while continuing to support the wider WMCA agenda for homes, growth and jobs.

You’ve worked in the transport sector for nearly three decades. What have been the biggest lessons you’ve learned, and how are they shaping your vision now?

Transport is not an end in itself; it’s an enabler that touches almost every aspect of daily life. It’s not about professionals

dictating solutions, but about listening to residents, businesses and visitors to understand what’s needed and when. Engagement is crucial, both to shape the right interventions and to build support, while balancing strategic ambition with what’s happening on people’s doorsteps. Devolution and multi-year funding settlements have been transformational. The City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement brought £1.2bn, and Transport for City Regions has allocated a further £2.4bn from 2027. Alongside new infrastructure, improving what we already have is essential. Our bus network carries around 80% of public transport journeys, so improving reliability and convenience remains a major focus.

As a Birmingham Colmore Board Director, you sit between business and transport. How does that influence your priorities?

There’s strong alignment between the two. Alongside my role on the Colmore Board, I’ve been part of the Accessible and Sustainable Working Group and chaired the Snow Hill Public Realm Board. That experience has been invaluable in shaping shared priorities and understanding the competing needs within the city centre and Business District.

It’s about wearing the right hat at the right time. At Snow Hill, for example, I oversaw the development and delivery of public realm improvements while ensuring access for businesses and visitors was maintained. Engagement with businesses remains absolutely key.

One of your past projects was the HS2 Connectivity Package. What are the next big connectivity ambitions for the region?

Birmingham’s Sports Quarter is a transformational project in East Birmingham, centred around a new Birmingham City FC stadium and a wider

regeneration programme. It will create a new neighbourhood with homes, businesses, community facilities, green space and improved transport links.

This sits within our place-based approach to supporting Investment and Growth Zones, as set out in the recently launched Major Investment Prospectus. Alongside this, we’re working with Aston Villa to improve Witton and Aston stations ahead of Euro 2028. We’re also delivering light rail extensions to Merry Hill and Millennium Point, and opening five new railway stations in 2026, all helping connect people to jobs, skills and opportunity.

Sustainability is clearly central to modern transport. How are you tackling this?

It’s embedded in everything we do – not treated as a bolt-on.

Colmore has backed accessibility initiatives for walking and cycling. How do you see active travel shaping

“Sustainability is embedded in everything we do. It’s not treated as a bolt-on”

the Business District?

Active travel is fundamental to the integrated transport network we’re building. Our Local Transport Plan focuses on 15-minute connected communities, linking walking, wheeling, cycling and scooting to trams, rail and bus services to provide 45-minute connectivity across the region.

Public realm improvements play a major role in making the city centre more permeable, and this will continue to be supported through funding. Accessibility for disabled and neurodivergent people is also embedded throughout our work, from step-free routes and adapted cycles to improved safety, signage and wayfinding.

How do you manage the trade-offs involved in major infrastructure projects,

particularly in commercial areas like Colmore?

Engagement has to run through the entire process, supported by robust assessment to identify solutions that deliver the right outcomes. Managing disruption is also critical. Our Network Resilience team does extensive upfront planning to keep the West Midlands moving through both planned works and unplanned events, helping people plan ahead and make informed travel choices.

With hybrid working now the norm, how is TfWM adapting?

Working with our train, bus and tram operators, we’ve adapted to changing travel patterns by introducing more flexible fare options. Swift Go, for example, caps fares over a day, three days or a week, supporting hybrid workers. We’ve also simplified fares and made tickets easier to buy through apps and contactless payments, helping make public transport more relevant and attractive.

FALL IN LOVE WITH BIRMINGHAM LIGHT FESTIVAL

Birmingham Light Festival reveals the full programme for 2026, including a gallery of spectacular, illuminated artworks from internationally renowned and local artists, plus a series of special events, all taking place across the city from 12 – 15 February

Birmingham Light Festival returns to transform city spaces into a dazzling open-air gallery from 12-15 February, with a programme of spectacular light installations and special events set to brighten the dark winter nights.

For the Festival’s second year, brand new temporary illuminated artworks will take over the streets, squares and public spaces in Birmingham, giving festivalgoers new opportunities to fall in love with the city this Valentine’s weekend. Bullring presents FORGED, produced by Birmingham Hippodrome, a high-energy live experience will transform Bullring with fire performances. Set to a live soundtrack of spoken word and original music from one the city’s most exciting metal bands, Insurgent, FORGED is inspired by the sparks, steel and relentless rhythm that shaped Birmingham. Between performances, the spotlight turns to the public as visitors are invited to quite literally play with fire and step up to a spectacular fire-breathing organ, a bold, interactive installation which triggers bursts of flame against the night sky.

Having ignited the night, a wander down to 1000 Trades Square will take visitors to the home of Reunion , by Kumquat Lab, where sweeping luminous arches

THE LOOK OF LOVE: ALL EYES ON THE TOWN HALL

High over Victoria Square, The Look of Love: All Eyes on Town Hall by Designs in Air, will see giant eyes keeping watch over Colmore Business District from Birmingham Town Hall as some silliness unfolds below. Voted the favourite installation from the inaugural Birmingham Light Festival, the iconic silent disco is back. This year taking the form of a classic party game, The Silly Statues x Silent Disco by festival producers, Outdoor Places Unusual Spaces (OPUS), will transform Victoria Square into a giant game of musical statues, with disco host Madame Freeze rewarding the silliest frozen poses.

outside New Street Station will create a magical setting for a city, connected. This colourful artwork is brought to you with thanks to Network Rail and Birmingham City University.

My Heart Belongs in Birmingham , by NeonCow, brings illuminated neon hearts to Lower Temple Street – a love note to the city, perfect for selfies and sharing the love as visitors carry on exploring. Back by popular demand and building on the theme of love, Our Beating Heart , by Studio Vertigo, will be taking up residence at Mailbox. This glittering artwork will transform the Canalside with shimmering

light whilst inviting visitors to immerse themselves in disco music beside the rotating, heart-shaped mirror ball, one of nightlife’s most universal icons.

Over in the Jewellery Quarter, Firefly Field by Studio Toer will bring a delicate glow to the green space of St. Paul’s Churchyard. Delicate points of light will drift and flicker, creating a mesmerising scene inspired by the subtle movements of fireflies. Along the canal path, in Oozells Square at Brindleyplace, The Heartbeat of Brindleyplace , by idontloveyouanymore, will see a collection of softly glowing boxes of light arrive, each one connected

to, and powered by, live Brummie hearts. Part of a nationwide project, Matters of the Heart , the installation will share the stories of real people from Birmingham, connecting them to their light boxes by monitors which will pulse along with each heartbeat in real-time, wherever they are.

As the festival journey winds east into Edgbaston, a powerful installation invites festivalgoers into the stunning setting of Birmingham Botanical Gardens as Tipping Point , by international artist Luke Jerram, will create a thought-provoking simulated forest fire. In collaboration with award winning composers Dan Jones and Simon Birch, the outdoor artwork includes an immersive soundtrack, evocative audio effects and interviews with people about their experience of forest fires, bringing the reality of deforestation to life. Birmingham Botanical Gardens will also be hosting Climate Conversations, creating a space to reflect and initiate discussions around climate change. Guarantee your access to this poignant experience by booking a free ticket via the Light Festival website. This provocative artwork is brought to you with thanks to artwork sponsor, Middlemarch. Alongside the temporary artworks, completing the Birmingham Light Festival journey will be 4 legacy installations, three of which remained in situ after last year’s festival. A new installation, Where the Trees Begin , by Birmingham-based mural artist Richard O’Gorman, will see Edgbaston Village creatively illuminated with an artwork inspired by the ancient forests that once shaped Birmingham’s landscape. Richard’s piece was chosen by a panel after local creators and artists were asked to submit proposals for a new legacy piece and will remain in place after the festival ends. It joins the existing legacy pieces Alright Bab! (Colmore Square), Ideas Happen Here (Newhall Square) and Roof of Stars (Thorp Street). The continuation of the Legacy Programme has been made possible thanks to the support of Birmingham City Council, using funds from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.

As Birmingham lights up, businesses across the city are uniting to host a series of special events and festival exclusives, giving visitors the chance to fully immerse themselves in the celebrations. Over 50 events will be taking place across the weekend, including everything from Run the Lights , a group run starting from The Goodsyard taking in all the installations, and Paws of Light , a dog walk that makes sure furry

SILLY STATUES SILENT DISCO

THE HEARTBEAT OF BRINDLEYPLACE

friends don’t miss out on the action.

Edgbaston Village Night Market will give visitors the chance to explore Greenfield Crescent and discover new independent makers, while the CBSO and Canal and River Trust will be bringing back their Bringing the Light Lantern Procession after last year’s success.

Candlelit evenings at restaurants across the city will level up the romance as reservations open for wine tasting at Loki Wine, a five-course special menu at The High Field, whisky tasting with Grain & Glass and an exclusive menu inspired by embers at Cow & Sow.

Bars across the city including Hotel du Vin, Chapter, The Alchemist, Everyman Cinema, Flight Club and Bazar at Harvey Nichols will also be serving up specially curated, light themed cocktails over the festival weekend, creating perfect pitstops while taking in the installations.

Led by City Curator, Alex Nicholson-Evans and festival producers OPUS, founding partners Birmingham Colmore, Central BID, Southside District, Westside BID and

FORGED

The Jewellery Quarter BID have come together with Bullring, Edgbaston Village, Mailbox, Network Rail, Birmingham City University and Brindleyplace to brighten up February’s dark nights with Birmingham Light Festival for the second time.

Alex Nicholson-Evans, said: “We are so excited to be able to reveal the full programme for Birmingham Light Festival 2026. We have some truly remarkable artworks lined up and are delighted to be able to showcase thought-provoking, renowned works alongside original creations from talented local artists.

“Once again our fantastic founding partners, forward thinking festival supporters and a whole host of incredible organisations from across the city have come together to make sure Birmingham has something wonderful to look forward to in this particularly dark and cold winter. The countdown is officially on!”

For more information, visit: www.birminghamlightfestival.co.uk Map of Light Festival locations over the page >>>

TIPPING POINT

WHERE THE TREES BEGIN

PUBLIC REALM WORKS TO TRANSFORM CITY CENTRE

With extensive public realm works set to transform Birmingham city centre, Colmore businesses can expect changes to key routes and access points. Here’s what you need to know.

Major public realm improvements began in January, bringing significant upgrades to key parts of the city centre, and here’s what Colmore businesses need to know.

Birmingham City Council has appointed CPC Civils to deliver a programme of high-quality public realm works, including new granite paving, upgraded lighting, improved drainage and refreshed street furniture. The project is scheduled to run for around 18 months.

The works will transform a number of central streets, including New Street, Bennetts Hill, Ethel Street, Temple Street, Lower Temple Street, Eden Place and Chamberlain Passage. Although the programme sits outside of Colmore’s boundary, it will directly affect many routes commuters, visitors and workers use every day.

Birmingham City Council said the enhanced pedestrian areas will create “safer and attractive” spaces for people walking and cycling, while restrictions on vehicle movements are expected to “help improve the overall air quality” over time. “These works will involve

small teams of highly skilled operatives removing the existing paving, upgrading the drainage and sub-base, and installing new surfaces across these locations,” a Council spokesperson confirmed.

The first phase begins on 5 January and includes refurbishment of the Victoria Square steps, the upper end of New Street through to the Corporation Street junction, as well as works on Temple Street near its bars and restaurants. A full timetable is shown opposite. Some access routes will be temporarily diverted, with traffic management in place as needed. Any adjustments to waste collection points or delivery arrangements will be shared in advance, and Colmore will keep businesses informed through regular newsletter updates.

TIMETABLE OF WORKS

New Street – area by Nando’s – KFC – Simply Local

Proposed work: January 5 until April 16

New Street – area by Watches of Switzerland –Apple – Lloyds Bank – Gail’s Bakery

Proposed work: January 5 until April 30

Temple Street – area by Flight Club – Fumo –The Ivy

Proposed work: January 5 until May 22

New Street second phase – area by KFC and Boots

Proposed work: March 25 until July 9

New Street – area by Starbucks – Watches of Switzerland – Tesco

Proposed work: April 1 until June 4

Temple Street – area by Moss Bros – Flight Club – Tesco Car Park

Proposed work: May 25 until August 18

Cannon Street

Proposed work: July 10 until August 10

New Street – area by Bella Italia – Tim Hortons – Moss Bros

Proposed work: August 19 until November 9

Lower Bennetts Hill – areas by The Indian Streatery and Dave’s Hot Chicken

Proposed work: August 19 until November 25

Second phase Bennetts Hill – areas by Dirty Martini – Cosy Club – The Indian Streatery

Proposed work: November 26 until March 31, 2027

Pictured above: An artist’s impression of Temple Street after the works have been completed

Lower Temple Street – area by Tim Hortons –Café Nero & Starbucks – Ladbrokes

Proposed work: April 1, 2027 until July 7, 2027

CASTING NEW LIGHT ON CITY’S ART SCENE

BY RUTH MILLINGTON, OPEN 25/26 CURATOR

What do emerging artists want? In my experience, it’s the opportunity to have their work seen.

That’s exactly what is now being offered to Ispahani Mukah, Dinah Hewson and Ayodeji Awoyomi, the three deserving winners of Birmingham Open 25: LIGHT. Thanks to Birmingham Colmore, from 8-24th April 2026, a selection of their work will be showcased in a group exhibition at Birmingham School of Art (pictured above).

I’m excited to be curating this show, which will celebrate these emerging Birmingham artists in a historic citycentre space. The Grade 1 listed building at Margaret Street has inspiring heritage, with Edward Burne-Jones, Emmy Bridgwater and Florence Camm among its most famous former students, while William and May Morris lectured there. Since the 19th century, Birmingham has been home to leading Pre-Raphaelites, Arts and Crafts pioneers, Surrealists and Pop artists. I believe it’s crucial that we build on this creative legacy and continue

to support local talent by offering them tangible opportunities, and wall space, in the city.

I’ve loved being involved – as chair of an expert judging panel and curator of The Open, which more than 60 artists entered in 2025. Generously funded by Colmore, it’s been a much-needed initiative to platform and reward emerging visual artists through public exhibitions, prize money and portfolio reviews with Forward Gallery. It’s essential we help artists build sustainable careers in this city – we don’t want to lose them to London or Manchester!

For the three winners of 2025’s competition, I’m looking forward to working with them even more closely. I will be reviewing and selecting works for a physical exhibition, which will include their winning light-themed artworks alongside a greater selection of paintings, drawings, photographs and projections. Their group exhibition will be free to attend and open to the general public during Birmingham School of Art’s opening hours.

For local artists interested in future opportunities, there’s good news on the horizon, too. The Open will be returning in 2026, with full details to be announced at the time of the exhibition. Please keep an eye on Colmore’s channels for more information.

EXHIBITION PUTS PIONEER IN FRAME

An outdoor exhibition celebrating one of Birmingham’s most overlooked innovators was installed by Birmingham Colmore at the West Midlands Metro Town Hall stop. The exhibition honoured George Shaw (1818–1904), the city’s first photographer and an unsung hero of Victorian Birmingham, whose contributions to photography and science are being rediscovered. Produced by artist Jo Gane and organised and funded by Birmingham Colmore, the free, openair exhibition brought Shaw’s story directly to the streets. The exhibition was featured in both BBC and Digital Camera World, who noted “Why is Birmingham’s first photographer finally getting the recognition he deserves after 180 years?”

It forms part of Colmore’s ongoing mission to take art and heritage out of traditional venues and into the public realm.

SPOTLIGHT ON BIRMINGHAM’S NEXT GENERATION OF TALENT

Birmingham is a city built on ambition, and its future is in safe hands.

In this feature, we celebrate five inspiring individuals who represent the next generation of talent shaping our region. Each of them is a recent winner of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce BYPY Awards, recognised for their innovation, leadership, and commitment to making a difference. From driving business growth to championing creativity and community, these rising stars are redefining what success looks like in Birmingham.

DANIELLA CAMPBELL, FORVIS MAZARS

Where do you see yourself in five years? How does this city fit that vision?

In five years, I see myself continuing to grow in a role that allows me to contribute to Birmingham’s evolving story, through leadership and mentoring others. Birmingham fits perfectly with that vision because it’s a city that rewards ambition and values community. I want to be part of shaping its future, and I know that the opportunities here will allow me to keep building a career that’s both impactful and connected to the city’s progress.

ZOYA ALAM, SQUIRE PATTON BOGGS

Tell us about your career journey so far and how Birmingham has shaped it.

I have always believed the best way to learn is by doing – and that belief shaped my career journey.

After completing my A Levels in 2020, I began studying Geography at the University of Birmingham, but I knew the degree apprenticeship route was the right fit for me. During my first year, I applied for several programs and secured a Paralegal Apprenticeship at Squire Patton Boggs in 2021.

That transition was a turning point –challenging but incredibly rewarding. Today, I am well into a four-year Solicitor Apprenticeship that combines academic study with hands-on experience. Birmingham has been central to this journey – the city’s vibrant legal community and the supportive culture within my firm have given me the chance to learn, grow, and take on real responsibility early in my career.

JAY DHALIWAL, CHASE DEVERE

Why do you believe Birmingham is a great place for the next generation of talent?

Birmingham offers diversity, opportunity, and affordability, making it ideal for the next generation of talent. Its growing business sector, strong universities, and collaborative culture, fosters learning and networking.

With ongoing regeneration and innovation (there seem to be new buildings popping up every year!), the city provides a dynamic environment where ambitious professionals can build successful careers and shape the future.

GEORGE MANDE, KPMG

What opportunities in Birmingham excite you the most right now?

Probably will sound like a cliché, but I do hope that HS2

“Birmingham will remain my professional home –the city’s supportive professional environment has shaped my career foundations”

IN LADYWOOD COLMORE

will enable Birmingham to be the central hub that it deserves to be and connect the city with the rest of the country and bring investments into the city. However, with fast travel being readily available to London especially, the city needs to be careful to not uproot local communities and price them out/ displace them out of their homes.

Nonetheless, if managed properly, HS2 has the chance to properly bring in the investments that Birmingham needs and be the catalyst for a real growth in the local economy and communities.

ALISTAIR COWEN, KPMG

Why do you believe Birmingham is a great place for the next generation of talent?

Birmingham offers a diverse mix of employers across sectors, creating real opportunities for career growth. The cultural and social scene has gone from strength to strength. Networks like Future Faces provide young professionals with platforms to connect, learn, and develop their careers.

Above all, Birmingham’s collaborative and welcoming community makes it a great base to thrive.

BY KELSEY DWYER, PARTNERSHIPS & EVENTS MANAGER, BIRMINGHAM COLMORE

At Birmingham Colmore, our impact goes far beyond our District. We create meaningful connections and support communities less fortunate across the city. This winter, we were hugely proud to work with partners and volunteers to bring a little extra warmth and joy to children and families in Ladywood.

Our Breakfast with Santa event saw 15 children from six families enjoy a magical morning at Dishoom. Over a festive breakfast, children met Father Christmas before heading to our offices to receive their gifts and a story from Santa.

Thanks to the generosity of our business community, every child left with something special. Colmore Partners kindly supported two children, Millennium Point provided pyjamas and supermarket vouchers, and Connex Education Partnership helped six children, ensuring no one was left out. Our support didn’t stop there. With the cost of living continuing to challenge families, we organised food donations to help ease the seasonal pressure.

The Birmingham & Midland Institute (BMI) led the way with an incredible push, offering not only donations, but also storage space and a volunteer hub

where hampers were packed with care and delivered in time for Christmas.

We also co-ordinated clothing donations, delivering coats and school uniforms to a local school, delivering practical help that makes a real difference during the colder months. These initiatives reflect what Birmingham Colmore stands for: collaboration, compassion, and commitment. By working with businesses and partners across the city, we’re able to extend our impact beyond the District and into the communities that need it most.

Every contribution from your community, whether it was a gift, a coat, or a few hours of volunteering, helps create a stronger, more connected Birmingham. Thank you! 2026 is no different to last and we remain driven to build on our community contributions. Supporting Ladywood isn’t just a seasonal effort, it’s part of our ongoing mission to ensure Birmingham thrives for everyone.

If you’d like to learn more, or help us support the Ladywood community, email kelsey.dwyer@colmorebid.co.uk

TRILLIUM A

NEW CHAPTER FOR GLYNN PURNELL AND PHIL INNES

A vibrant new dining destination, complete with a constantly evolving menu and a striking outdoor terrace, has opened its doors

Trillium has opened its doors in Colmore Business District, marking a new chapter for two of the city’s most influential figures in food and wine. The restaurant is the latest collaboration between chef Glynn Purnell and wine specialist Phil Innes, bringing together seasonal cooking and an expansive, carefully considered wine list in the heart of the city.

Situated at 1 Snow Hill Queensway, Trillium is an intimate 48-cover restaurant that balances confident, produce-led cookery with a relaxed sense of elegance. The opening represents the first time Purnell and Innes have worked together, uniting one of Birmingham’s best-known chefs with the founder of the city’s multi-awardwinning wine institution, Loki Wine.

The menu reflects Trillium’s focus on quality ingredients treated with creativity and restraint. Dishes include an XL gougère filled with warm Montgomery cheddar and paprika, roast Orkney scallop with ox tail Bolognese, smoked roe and basil, and Dunwood Farm Wagyu bone-in sirloin served with sauce au poivre. Larger plates such as half roast of Creedy Carver duck with confit leg, muscovado, and orange and thyme tomatoes sit alongside Trillium baked rice, while desserts range from caramel custard

tart with winter blood orange sorbet to a classic zabaglione.

The zabaglione, an Italian dessert made with egg yolks, sugar and Madeira wine, is served here with fig, Madeira and spiced doughnuts. Comforting yet refined, it neatly captures Trillium’s approach: familiar flavours elevated with finesse and confidence.

Wine plays an equally central role, with a list that moves easily between natural producers, lesser-known discoveries and established classics. Innes’ influence ensures the selection feels exploratory but accessible, encouraging diners to engage with wine as part of the overall experience rather than a separate formality.

Glynn Purnell leads the kitchen as Chef Patron, supported by Head Chef Rob

Palmer and Sous Chef Andrew Kay. Palmer brings considerable experience, having earned a Michelin star at Peel’s restaurant at Hampton Manor in 2016, before opening Toffs by Rob Palmer in Solihull and later becoming Executive Chef at Ansty Hall in Coventry.

“This

project is about more than food and drink – it’s about new beginnings and collaboration between exceptional people.”

The interior design takes its cue from folklore and the natural world, reflecting the quiet strength of the trillium flower from which the restaurant takes its name. The space is dressed in deep wine reds, beetroot and plum tones, softened by sage, clay and petal pink. Woodlandinspired lighting, hand-painted finishes and etched glass create a sense of warmth and movement, giving the dining room an atmosphere that feels both intimate and expressive. Every detail has been carefully considered to ensure guests feel looked after without formality. The result is a restaurant that feels refined but never stiff, welcoming both special occasions and spontaneous visits.

Trillium is designed to be flexible and sociable – a place for locals, visitors and anyone who believes great food is best enjoyed together.

Glynn Purnell said: “This project is about more than food and drink – it’s about new beginnings and collaboration between exceptional people. I want every dish to spark surprise, delight and discovery, encouraging guests to explore the menu freely.”

Co-founder Phil Innes added: “We recognised that this site offered far more than bricks and mortar – it was a place waiting to be reawakened with character, imagination and intent.

“We set out to create a venue in Birmingham where people can enjoy the very best of contemporary hospitality in one setting. Watching Trillium take shape has been immensely rewarding.”

Trillium is open Wednesday to Saturday for lunch and dinner, with reservations available at trilliumrestaurant.co.uk.

GRAB & GO GOODNESS AT SHOKUPAN

If you’ve not met Shokupan yet, let us introduce you to your new lunchtime obsession. Shokupan is Japanese milk bread, and is famous for being ridiculously soft, slightly sweet, and so fluffy it’s been described as “like biting into a cloud.” It’s the bread that makes Shokupan’s sandos (Japanese sandwiches) next-level.

Forget limp supermarket slices — this is artisan bread with attitude.

Shokupan bake their own loaves, stack them high with inventive fillings, and serve them up at Society Birmingham, right in the heart of Colmore Square. Think hot pepper chicken with a fiery kick, truffle mushroom for the veggie foodies, or the mighty Yankee beef for those who like it big and bold. Once you’ve tried one, you’ll never look at a regular sandwich the same way again.

PRESSED FOR TIME?

The Single Sando Meal Deal is your hero. One mega sando, a side, and a drink, all ready to grab and go. Perfect for professionals who want something quick but still crave flavour and quality.

CARE & SHARE

Got a team to feed? The Care & Share Box (pictured above) is the ultimate office lunch upgrade. Five stacked sandos, fresh fruit, drinks, and a cheeky Shokupop dessert to finish. It’s a spread that says, “We care”, and keeps everyone fuelled for the afternoon grind.

Shokupan blends comfort food with a cool edge, served in a space that’s all about good times and great taste. So next time you’re in Colmore, skip the boring baguette and try the cloud-soft bread that’s changing the sandwich game. Find Shokupan at Society Birmingham, in Colmore Square — or check out shokupan.co.uk for menus and ordering.

THEN&NOW

A CENTURY OF CHANGE ACROSS COLMORE

From grand Edwardian streets to bold post-war experiments and today’s glassfronted skyline, these ‘Then & Now’ images capture Birmingham city centre in a constant state of reinvention.

Paired historic and contemporary views of Church Street, Colmore Row, the former Gaumont Cinema and the demolition of the old Central Library reveal a Business District shaped as much by ambition as by necessity.

Church Street’s evolution reflects the

quiet endurance of the city’s commercial core, where traditional offices and institutions have adapted to new ways of working while retaining their civic presence. The Gaumont Cinema, once a glamorous destination for moviegoers, reminds us that entertainment and commerce have long sat side by side in the city centre, even as uses and audiences change.

Few images speak more powerfully of transition than the demolition of the

former Central Library. Once a bold symbol of modern Birmingham, its removal marked the end of one era and the start of another.

Together, these snapshots chart the changing life of Birmingham’s economic hub, a place repeatedly reshaped by industry, culture and design.

For the latest Colmore history and heritage walks, talks and publications visit colmorelife.co.uk

SALON IN THE CITY EXPLORING BIRMINGHAM’S TRANSFORMATION

Birmingham is a city in motion, its population, behaviours, and expectations are evolving at pace, reshaping not only the local economy but the very fabric of everyday life.

To explore these profound changes, we have launched an innovative event series called Salon in the City, designed to spark meaningful conversations about what this transformation means for businesses, communities, and culture.

Curated by cultural strategists Lara Ratnaraja and Helga Henry, and funded by Birmingham Colmore, the event series

goes beyond surface-level discussion and offers a platform for deep, practical insights into how globalisation and demographic shifts are influencing the way we live, work, and interact.

The first Salon, held in January with guest speaker Richard Lawrence, set the bar for what promises to be a thought-provoking programme. Attendees explored how the future of planning and urban design and new technologies are shaping the spaces where we live, work, and connect.

Upcoming sessions will delve into the challenges of social care, how sport acts

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as a catalyst for change, and the future of our night-time economy.

Each event is designed to encourage collaborative thinking and inspire a renewed sense of Birmingham’s identity during this period of significant change. Want to be part of the conversation? Visit our events page to sign up for the next Salon in the City and join us in shaping Birmingham’s future.

Visit colmorelife.co.uk/ events or scan the code:

COLMORE OPINION

WHY BIRMINGHAM NEEDS A NEW FOOD & DRINK STRATEGY

BY ALEX NICHOLSON-EVANS, CITY CURATOR

I always find it hard to choose a project to talk about – with my City Curator hat on there is always so much going on that I want to share. Thankfully, the decision has been made a little easier this time, as elsewhere in this issue you can read all about one of my other major projects: the upcoming Birmingham Light Festival. The 2026 edition of the festival is one I’m exceedingly excited about, and I hope you’ll come and join us to see the city in a different light from 12–15 February.

The work I want to share with you here is another project I’m hugely passionate about – the development and delivery of a new Food & Drink Tourism Strategy for Birmingham.

Birmingham’s food and drink scene is extraordinary; a tapestry of independent restaurants, buzzing cocktail bars, well-loved chain eateries, neighbourhood pubs and, very excitingly, the chance to sample delights from an extraordinary breadth of global cuisines.

I travel all over the world eating and drinking, it’s a real passion of mine (indeed, I’m writing this from Barcelona having just devoured an artichoke dish I’ll be thinking about throughout the rest of the evening) and I’m not alone. These days around 80% of travellers research food and drink options when choosing their next destination. Culinary experiences are a major part of travel planning, and we have those in abundance here in Birmingham.

Birmingham was one of the founding members of the Délice Network, alongside, sister city, Lyon. We have a rich food heritage – think Birds Custard, Cadbury and,

of course, the Balti. We’ve won awards and titles on occasion too, but never consistently. We’ve never quite found our collective momentum despite having all the raw ingredients for success, including a plethora of highly successful businesses. What we need is a strategy

Over a year ago, I asked Birmingham City Council to fund exactly that. The team at BCC shared my ambition and could see the value and the need, but resources (perhaps unsurprisingly given where the city was a year ago) couldn’t be allocated. Then came the birth of a new movement, the Birmingham Hospitality Collective. This is a group I’m thrilled to be a member

of. In our first meetings I felt reignited by the passion of fellow business owners and advocates for the hospitality scene. They saw the need for a strategy too. I became 100% committed to making it a reality and began fundraising to commission a Food & Drink Tourism Strategy for Birmingham.

Birmingham Colmore, Central BID, The Jewellery Quarter BID, Southside District, Westside BID, Edgbaston Village, Selfridges and Legal & General all answered my call to arms.

Funding was successfully lined up, but we also needed critical stakeholders at the table. I have always believed it to be essential that this work was developed with and supported by Birmingham City Council, the West Midlands Combined Authority, the West Midlands Growth Company and the sector, in the form of the Birmingham Hospitality Collective. Each of those parties came to the table too and it is my utter pleasure to say that we have appointed an expert agency that will take us on the journey to develop a Food & Drink Tourism Strategy for the city.

Now, before I finish – allow me one reflection. I’m well aware that it’s unusual for a strategy like this not to be developed by a local authority or destination marketing organisation – and in the beginning I found our scenario frustrating. But the more I think about it, the less frustrated and more excited I feel. I genuinely believe Birmingham will end up with a more successful and innovative strategy because of this approach. That’s because it will be built on the collective ambition and knowledge of the sector and the city. It will happen because passionate, committed people understood that it was needed – and believe in it enough to make it so.

A NEW ENERGY NETWORK FOR A GREENER COLMORE

COLMORE LAUNCHES MID TERM REVIEW

Colmore is launching its mid-term review survey and focus groups this March.

This is your chance to share direct feedback on the projects delivered so far in our BID4 term (2024-2029) and help shape what’s next. Participants can win prizes!

We look forward to working closely with you to inform our next couple of years.

New funding, new partnerships and practical support to help Colmore businesses access affordable, sustainable energy.

Early in 2025, Colmore took an important step forward by establishing the Birmingham Energy and Development Network – a new Community Interest Company (CIC) designed to amplify our impact.

This independent entity allows us to work across Birmingham and beyond, unlocking opportunities for grant funding.

The CIC has already achieved a major milestone, securing £40,000 in grant support from the Midlands Net Zero Hub. This funding is helping us champion our partnership proposition with ConsensusPower, for clean, green, and local energy.

Through new videos, leaflets, and oneto-one meetings, we’re sharing positive messages and practical solutions with businesses across the city centre to help reduce their energy costs.

Get in touch with us if you’d like to take advantage of low-cost, locally produced, clean power solutions for your business. We’re also incredibly proud to collaborate with Sustainability West Midlands, ensuring that the benefits of green energy, both environmental and financial, are front of mind for our businesses. Together, we’re driving a conversation about sustainability that goes beyond words and into action.

Want to find out more? Visit https:// consensuspower.com/local-authorities/ colmore-bid

& SHAKERS MOVERS

NEWMARK

Leading commercial real estate advisor Newmark has strengthened its Birmingham presence with two significant hires, welcoming Matthew Dolben as Partner and Magdalena Singh as Associate to its growing business rates team.

Both specialists bring deep expertise in the licensed leisure sector, a strategic priority for the Church Street firm as it expands its offering across the Midlands and beyond.

Dolben arrives with more than 20 years of industry experience, advising on business rates for pubs, bars and hotels nationwide. Highly regarded for his knowledge of valuing “over-trading” premises, he has also represented clients across industrial, retail and office markets at both the Valuation Tribunal and the Upper Chamber.

Joining him is Singh, who brings over eight years’ experience and a strong focus on the licensed leisure sector. Her background includes extensive work with industrial and automotive clients, further broadening the depth of Newmark’s regional capability.

Both Dolben and Singh join from BNP Paribas Real Estate, reinforcing Newmark’s commitment to investing in top-tier talent and strengthening its national business rates offering, particularly within hospitality and leisure.

THE PROMOTIONS, APPOINTMENTS AND MOVES SHAPING COLMORE’S PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPE

LEGAL 500 MIDLANDS: COLMORE FIRMS FEATURE

LEGAL 500

The latest Legal 500 West Midlands guide has delivered a strong performance for Colmore, with several of our resident firms earning high-profile rankings, as the city’s legal heart continues to flourish. While over 110 firms across the West Midlands secured rankings in the new Legal 500 guide, many of the District’s most respected names have stood out. That success is not only in the volume of ranked firms but in the depth and breadth of expertise on display. Key practice areas in Birmingham, such as commercial litigation and commercial property, have among the largest pools of ranked firms, with 21 firms in each category located in the city.

Several Colmore-based firms have particularly distinguished themselves: Clarke Willmott LLP : The firm’s

Birmingham office, located at 9 Colmore Row, has earned recognition in seven practice areas in the Legal 500. These include family, commercial litigation, corporate and commercial, construction, banking & finance, personal injury and commercial property.

Notably, Rayner Grice , partner and head of the Birmingham office, was named a Leading Partner in family law, while Caroline Young (family) was named a Leading Associate, and Adam Maguire a Next Generation Partner. Colmore board member Melanie Williams was also named a leading partner for her work at DWF Law.

RLK Solicitors: This litigation firm recently opened an office at 103 Colmore Row, reinforcing its commitment to Birmingham’s business hub. Their inclusion in the Legal 500 as a “Firm to Watch” for Commercial Litigation underscores their growing reputation.

mfg Solicitors: Although their recognition in the Legal 500 is not limited to Colmore, the firm’s regional strength has been celebrated across multiple departments. Their ranking features nine departments and several individuals, including contentious probate partner Robert Weston (Hall of Fame) and others in leadership roles.

Ward Hadaway: Although a newer arrival to Birmingham, the firm’s recent opening in the Colmore area at 2 Chamberlain Square was noted in Legal 500 coverage. The Legal 500 success of Colmorebased firms reinforces the District’s standing as a major legal hub, not only in Birmingham but in the wider West Midlands and high rankings help attract top-tier legal talent, further boosting the vibrancy of Colmore.

GOLDMAN SACHS

Global banking giant Goldman Sachs says it plans to create up to 500 new jobs at its base in Colmore.

The investment bank and financial services firm, which opened an office in the city in 2021, says it plans to double its workforce to more than 1,000 staff. Goldman Sachs first launched in the city’s WeWork facility in Colmore Row before striking a deal a year later for 110,000 sq ft of space across five floors in One Centenary Way on the Paradise estate.

Over the course of its first year in Birmingham, it grew the team to 250 staff and moved to One Centenary Way as it had capacity to accommodate up to 1,000 people.

Its staff in the city work in fields such as engineering services, human capital management, legal, audit and workplace solutions.

MILLS & REEVE

Leading law firm Mills & Reeve has strengthened its private client team with a raft of appointments, including Rachael Armstrong as partner in its One Centenary Way office.

Rachael joins the firm from Veale Wasbrough Vizards (VWV), where she was head of its private client practice in Birmingham for over nine years. In her new role, Armstrong will work alongside the highly regarded private client team in Mills & Reeve’s Birmingham office, which is ranked top tier in both Chambers High Net Worth and Legal 500. The team includes specialist partners Catriona Attride, John Grundy, Adam Williams and Lucy Howard.

Armstrong is joined by Patricia O’Neill, who has also been appointed from VWV. As a member of the Society of Trusts and Estates Practitioners (STEP), she joins as Trust & Estate Practitioner. Senior associate, Poppy Wilkinson completes the triple hire, joining from Eversheds.

Pictured: Catriona Attride, John Grundy, Rachael Armstrong, Adam Williams, and Lucy Howard

DELOITTE TO RELOCATE 1,000 STAFF TO PARADISE

DELOITTE

Professional services heavyweight Deloitte is preparing for its next chapter in Birmingham, with plans confirmed to relocate its city base to One Centenary Way in the heart of the Paradise development.

The firm will take 46,000 sq ft across the seventh and eighth floors of the building, moving from its long-standing base at Brindleyplace later this autumn. More than 1,000 Deloitte staff are currently employed in Birmingham, making the relocation one of the most significant professional services moves in the city this year.

Deloitte’s Birmingham move forms

part of a broader programme of office relocations across the UK, following recent changes in Aberdeen, Belfast, Bristol and Manchester. The strategy reflects a continued shift towards modern, flexible and lower-carbon workplaces that better support collaboration and long-term growth. One Centenary Way has quickly established itself as a prime destination for major occupiers. National law firm TLT relocated to the building in December, joining an existing roster of high-profile businesses including Goldman Sachs, JLL and Arup. The building spans more than 280,000 sq ft and is now close to full occupancy.

SOUTHSIDE DISTRICT

Southside Business Improvement District (BID) has been backed by local businesses, securing a fourth five-year term with 96% of businesses voting in favour of the BID’s future.

Of the 291 businesses eligible to vote, turnout was recorded at 50.5%, with 96% of businesses voting in favour by rateable value, and 93% by number.

This endorsement from local business means Southside District will continue to provide its services for another five-year term, delivering projects and initiatives that enhance the area’s appeal, safety and economic vitality.

The new term will begin on 1 April 2026 and following the successful ballot, Southside BID has relocated its headquarters to The Southside Building on Hurst Street.

GB SNOWSPORT DEAL: GATELEY NAMED PARTNER

GATELEY

Professional services group Gateley has agreed a deal with GB Snowsport to become its official legal partner ahead of the 2026 winter season, which culminates with the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Milan-Cortina, Italy.

The deal will see Gateley support the athletes in their preparations by funding a series of final training camps to give them the best level of preparation ahead of the season, which included the Alpine Slalom World Cup in Levi, Finland, in November. In addition, Gateley will also work with GB Snowsport and its community partners to

MILLER ROSE

broaden access to the sport across the country.

GB Snowsport is the national governing body for high-performance snowsports in the UK, managing 12 Olympic and Paralympic Snowsport disciplines, to help athletes to reach World Cup podiums and win Olympic and Paralympic medals.

As part of the partnership, Gateley will provide legal support for GB Snowsport across a variety of practice areas, including commercial and personnel, throughout the 2025/26 season.

Pictured: Chris Kisby, partner at Gateley, and Vicky Gosling, CEO, GB Snowsport

HCR LAW

Construction disputes specialist

Matthew Bromilow has joined HCR Law’s Construction and Engineering team as a Partner in the Birmingham office.

With over a decade of experience in construction and engineering disputes across various sectors, Bromilow brings expertise in adjudication, arbitration and mediation, as well as litigation services in the Technology and Construction Court. He also offers project advisory services. Before becoming a lawyer, Bromilow worked as a project manager for a Tier 1 sub-contractor, giving him firsthand insight into onsite issues and the commercial impact of supply chain disputes on major construction projects. He said: “I’ve always been interested in construction and engineering law, given the important role the sector plays in the UK and world economies.

“I’m excited to be joining HCR Law’s Construction and Engineering team at such a dynamic time for the firm. There’s real momentum in Birmingham and across the UK and it’s great to be part of that growth.”

Colin Jones, Head of Construction and Engineering, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Matthew to HCR Law. His reputation speaks for itself, and his experience will be a real asset to our team.

Birmingham’s property scene has a new entrant with the launch of Miller Rose, a Newhall Street-based full-service agency formed following a management buyout led by industry veteran Andy Butts.

Miller Rose brings together a team with more than 100 years of combined experience, offering a fully connected service spanning residential sales and lettings, new homes, investment property, land services and development consultancy. Butts, who has spent 13 years in senior leadership roles at Centrick, leads the new venture. He is joined by five colleagues from Centrick’s new homes, land and investment division, along with two senior hires who bolster the agency’s lettings and development consultancy expertise. Among them is Stuart Macdiarmid, appointed as Sales and Lettings Director.

“As demand for our services increases, we remain focused on delivering the high-quality advice and service our clients expect.”

Matthew joins HCR Law’s growing Birmingham office located in Colmore, which has recently welcomed senior hires including David Hall in the Technology and Innovation team and David Perry in the Real Estate team.

SEDULO

One of the UK’s fastest-growing business advisory firms, Sedulo Group, has strengthened its national leadership team with the appointment of Simon O’Brien as Managing Partner for its Birmingham office.

The move marks a major step in Sedulo’s UK-wide growth strategy, following the launch of its Midlands base earlier this year and forming part of its plan to double in size over the next three years.

Based at Sedulo’s new Metro Club on Cornwall Street, O’Brien will lead the firm’s Birmingham operations and play a central role in expanding Sedulo’s footprint across the UK’s key business hubs in London and Leeds in particular.

O’Brien joins from PwC, where he spent 25 years, including five years on the Mid-Tier Leadership Team, advising entrepreneurial, private equity-backed, and listed businesses across the UK and internationally.

O’Brien’s appointment comes as the group announces its year end results to 31 October 2025.

The consolidated revenues of the group were £24.5m, 20% ahead of the previous year’s figure of c£20.5m. The EBITDA for the same period was £3.2m, an 18% increase on the previous year’s result of £2.6m. The Group is now operating at a run rate approaching £26m.

FISHER GERMAN

A leading property consultancy is expanding its presence in Birmingham city centre.

Fisher German acted on behalf of the Waterman Group for their short move from Cornwall Street to the second floor of 60 Church Street, which is owned by Topland.

Topland have recently invested around £2.5m in repositioning the building to offer a first-class arrival, tenant space and end of trip facilities. In addition to the second-floor suite taken by Waterman, Topland has also delivered two fully fitted suites on the ground and fifth floors.

The newly refurbished 4,500 sq ft 60 Church Street premises are now the new home for around 50 of the company’s 250 Midlands-based staff.

Waterman provides secondment services and environmental and engineering consultancy across a range of schemes in multiple sectors.

CHAMPIONING SCHOOL GOVERNORS DISTRICT PROFILE & SHAKERS MOVERS

NGA

Based on Colmore Row, the National Governance Association is the membership charity for governors and trustees in England’s schools and academy trusts.

NGA’s chief executive Emma Balchin began her journey supporting young people as a volunteer at an advice centre.

As the first in her family to attend university, Emma’s passion for education runs deep. She has worked in the sector for 30 years, as both a teacher and a governor.

“Governing is a huge responsibility, but it’s also a tremendous privilege,” she said. “It gives us a real opportunity to shape the culture of our schools and trusts. Governors hold leaders to account,

oversee the use of public funds, and act as champions for every child.”

NGA provides guidance and training for over 80,000 members and ensures governors’ views are heard by government officials and ministers.

The charity recently held its annual conference at the NEC, sharing insights on safeguarding, finance and Ofsted inspections.

As NGA celebrates its 20th anniversary, Emma is determined to continue championing the role of governance.

“We want to build on our progress, grow and connect our community, and improve the lives of children and young people,” she concluded.

More information is available at www.nga.org.uk

CUBO

Cubo, one of the UK’s fastest-growing flexible workspace providers, has announced that it has taken over 55 Colmore Row in Birmingham from WeWork.

The company has taken a long lease on the former WeWork building, which offers more than 30,000 sq. ft of Grade A workspace in the heart of Colmore.

55 Colmore Row becomes a flagship location within Cubo’s 14-strong portfolio, bringing its combination of design-led

workspace, high-end service, and a vibrant member community to one of the UK’s most sought-after office buildings.

The building will offer private offices and will feature Cubo’s signature amenities, including a co-working lounge with barista coffee and breakout areas, enterprise-grade meeting suites and fully flexible and all-inclusive membership options.

Existing members will benefit from a transparent handover and immediate access to Cubo’s national network.

THE MANY BENEFITS OF REFORMER PILATES

For business professionals, long hours and demanding schedules mean wellbeing needs to be realistic, not rigid.

Sustaining health over time isn’t about doing everything perfectly, it’s about building consistent habits that fit your life, even if that means one or two focused sessions a week.

Movement that supports core stability, joint health, and energy levels plays an important role in long-term wellbeing, particularly as we age. One way professionals are integrating this kind of movement into busy lives is through reformer Pilates.

This shift towards sustainable, longevity-focused training is reflected clearly in global data. The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) consistently ranks Pilates and low-impact strength training at the top of worldwide fitness trends.

Boutique fitness insights, including data from Glofox, identify Pilates, particularly reformer-based training, as the leading growth modality within the global boutique sector. This aligns with McKinsey & Company’s Future of Wellness research, which shows consumers prioritising preventative health, functional strength and long-term performance over short-term intensity.

Reformer Pilates offers welldocumented health benefits. Research links Pilates training to improved core strength, posture, balance and flexibility, as well as reduced lower back pain, a leading cause of discomfort and lost productivity among desk-based professionals. The emphasis on controlled movement and breath also supports mental wellbeing, helping reduce stress and improve focus, while building deep core stability that becomes increasingly important with age, supporting spinal health, balance and long-term mobility.

TAKE FIVE FROM THE STRONG TEAM

1 DO WHAT YOU CAN, CONSISTENTLY – one to three sessions a week beats all-ornothing training.

2 TRAIN FOR LONGEVITY – low-impact, strength-led movement protects joints and mobility.

3 MAXIMISE YOUR TIME –choose workouts that combine strength, cardio and mobility.

4 FOLLOW STRUCTURE –gradual progression drives results.

5 LEAVE ENERGISED, NOT EXHAUSTED – training should support focus, mood and performance.

“There’s been a real shift in how people approach fitness,” says Michael Ramsey, Co-Founder of STRONG Pilates. “Professionals want training that helps them feel stronger, fitter and more energised, not exhausted. By combining reformer Pilates with cardio and strength, STRONG delivers a smart way to train for the long term.”

The team at STRONG have recently opened their doors in Colmore on Cornwall Street.

Colmore Tailors has recently found its perfect home in the heart of Colmore. After years of ambition and growth, the move marks a new chapter for the brand that blends heritage, craftsmanship, and modern style, sitting right where it always belonged. We sat down with Scott Caddick to find out more.

TAILORED TO COLMORE

Your recent move to the Imperial & Whitehall on Colmore Row places Colmore Tailors right at the heart of the Business District. What inspired the relocation, and how do you feel the new setting reflects the brand’s direction?

We were always destined to be in Colmore Business District, and it’s long been our ambition to be on “The Row” in Birmingham since the day we started. It’s the beating heart of Birmingham business, and we are Colmore Tailors after all. When I first started the business and thought about business names, Colmore was the one we kept coming back to. It sums up what we stand for, and where we look to operate. When you think of Colmore you think of professionalism, prestige and the desire to continually improve. It perfectly sums us up.

Tell us about your history and services you provide.

Colmore Tailors began as an out-of-hours visiting service, built on flexibility and personal connection. The idea was always to build the business up to a level where we could lay down roots in Birmingham so it was wonderful when it got to that level. After five years on Temple Street, we’ve now realised our ambition with an Atelier at Imperial & Whitehall, right where we belong. Colmore Tailors on Colmore Row, has a lovely cadence to it.

We have always placed our services as a modern incarnation of traditional

tailors, paying homage to the craft but with a forward-thinking outlook. Being bespoke we can make pretty much anything, but have a particular soft spot for robust English cloth made in a soft Italian-inspired make. It really makes for comfortable and stylish garments that hold up to the rigors of professional life. We deal a lot with business professionals, and always keep a refined selection of robust English cloth in classic patterns as we find this gives a wonderful balance of durability and style. We are finding more opting for sports coats and chinos and this shift to more expressive fabrics is exciting as there is so much variance.

From fabrics to fits, trends in men’s and women’s tailoring are shifting. What key trends are you currently seeing in Birmingham’s business community? I find we are somewhat immune to regular trends as what we aim for are timeless garments that eschew shortterm changes and retain style for years to come.

relevancy. We aim for style over fashion every time.

What we do see is sometimes changes in habits of what people buy and how they buy them, which was accelerated by covid and the swift changes in people’s workplaces.

We work on more and more sports jackets and odd trousers than we ever have, and have recently bought on board more smart-casual garments such as the CityChore and Blouson Jacket as a result. Although our heart will always be rooted in Classic Tailoring, it’s wonderful to apply our measured approach to other garments too.

The corduroy CityChore has proved a very popular addition.

Bespoke clothing is often viewed as a traditional craft. How do you balance classic techniques with a fresh, modern approach to tailoring?

We base our garments around each person’s unique proportions, skin tones and habits and this allows us to craft garments with a permanence and

Tailoring as an industry can help itself more. It’s one thing to do what you have always done, but not great when you become bound to it and a lot of our industry doesn’t change. You have to be open to new ideas and new ways of thinking as it’s how things evolve. If we didn’t do this then we’d all be coming to work on horseback wouldn’t we?

I suppose for us it’s a mindset, it’s always asking questions, always looking to improve and wanting to be 1% better each day. I’m pretty inquisitive and ask a lot of questions and have never been satisfied. It’s what drives us to improve, I mean we can all improve can’t we?

Our approach is also quite unique, I sometimes refer to it as shopping inverted. Normal shopping consists of you entering a shop and fitting a product that fits. Whereas our approach is to make the product fit you. Not only in its cut and cloth, but in its design and proportions. When I say it out loud it sounds so simple. But what we do is pretty unique; hard to learn, and harder still to execute (which is likely why we are the only ones doing it this way). But we really believe in this approach and invest time in making hard things appear easy to our clients. Life can be tough, clothing needn’t be.

Your clients range from corporate professionals to creative entrepreneurs. How do you ensure each person receives a personalised experience that reflects their identity and lifestyle?

We’re immensely proud that a large proportion of our clients return for the style advice as much as the product, which is a wonderful vindication of our approach. We take time to understand who they are and what they need, then create garments that feel authentic to their identity. With the ability to make anything, why not make the right thing?

As Colmore Tailors settles into its new home, what can existing and future clients expect in terms of services, innovations, or plans for the next stage of the business?

Our new Atelier gives us the perfect space to elevate the experience and a setting that reflects our ambition. It’s such a wonderful setting in a beautiful Grade 2 listed building, it finally feels like home. We’ll continue refining our craft, introducing innovative details, and assisting clients to find their own niche and their own style, whilst helping them along their journey. And who knows, it’d be lovely to hear feedback on whether womenswear could be a new option for us? If this is something the ladies of Colmore want then it’s something we can do... do they want it?

Colmore Tailors, Suite 2.06, Imperial & Whitehall, 23 Colmore Row, B3 2BS www.colmoretailors.co.uk

FOUR MORE MENSWEAR SALONS IN THE HEART OF THE DISTRICT

Colmore Business District has long been known for its sharp suits, high standards and professional energy, so it’s no surprise that its menswear and lifestyle offering continues to grow. Alongside the arrival of Colmore Tailors in the newly refurbished Imperial & Whitehall offices, a wider ecosystem of specialist retailers is helping redefine what it means to dress well, work well and move well in the city centre.

CROCKETT & JONES

One of the area’s most established names is Crockett & Jones, the heritage shoemaker renowned for its Goodyear-welted footwear. Their Birmingham presence brings craftsmanship, durability and understated British elegance directly to Colmore professionals seeking investment pieces that last a lifetime. From classic Oxfords to contemporary loafers, the store offers a masterclass in traditional shoemaking and personal service.

UP & RUNNING

For those with a focus on performance, Up & Running provides a completely different – but no less specialist –experience. The retailer is trusted

nationally by runners for its expert gait analysis, training shoe fitting and knowledge of the latest technical footwear. Whether preparing for a marathon or simply seeking supportive everyday trainers, the store caters to both seasoned athletes and those beginning their fitness journey.

LIQUOR STORE

Completing the picture is Liquor Store, an independent menswear favourite known for its carefully curated brands and modern approach to style. Stocking premium denim, contemporary streetwear and refined casual pieces, Liquor Store brings a new vibe to the area.

CLEMENTS & CHURCH

Just a short stroll away on Church Street, Clements & Church offers some of the finest tailoring in the city. Known for bespoke and made-to-measure suits, the tailor blends traditional techniques with modern styling, resulting in garments that are both impeccably constructed and perfectly personalised. Their craftsmanship and attention to detail have earned them a loyal following among professionals who value sartorial excellence.

COLMORE SHAPE THE FUTURE OF A CLEANER COLMORE

As part of our brand new look and strategic direction at Birmingham Colmore, we’ve refreshed our Working Groups. Find out more below.

Each of our Working Groups focuses on a key area that matters to Birmingham Colmore and our community of businesses and residents.

Led by a Colmore Board Director, Working Groups bring together a mix of passionate volunteers from Colmore businesses, public sector partners and members of the Birmingham Colmore team. Together, they help turn ideas into action and make a real difference.

We love working with people who share our passion for making a difference. If you’re keen to help us deliver the goals set out in our Business Plan, we’d love to hear from you. Email info@colmorebid. co.uk for information.

SAFER COLMORE

Safety with a friendly welcome at the heart of Birmingham. Safer Colmore creates an environment where businesses flourish and everyone feels confident exploring our vibrant District.

COLMORE PLACEMAKING

Curating public spaces that reflect Colmore’s character. Colmore Placemaking delivers transformational public realm projects and champions quality in every physical aspect of our District.

COLMORE COMMUNITY

Transforming 40,000 professionals into a connected, thriving community, Colmore Community creates experiences that bring people together, boost wellbeing, and make a positive impact beyond our boundaries.

COLMORE CULTURE

Bringing the district to life this week, next

weekend, and anytime of day or night. The Colmore Culture working group champions the leisure and hospitality scene that makes our District a destination, not just a workplace.

COLMORE MARKETING

Putting Colmore on the map and keeping it there. The Colmore Marketing working group shapes how our District is seen, experienced and celebrated. We strengthen both the Birmingham Colmore brand and the Colmore Life strand, to make our area unmissable.

ACCESSIBLE & SUSTAINABLE COLMORE

Connecting Colmore for everyone. Now and forever. Accessible & Sustainable Colmore shapes how people experience getting to and moving through our District. We champion inclusive mobility, sustainable travel, and smarter infrastructure.

COLMORE NEXT GEN

Ensuring the next generation feels at home in Colmore, Colmore Next Gen helps young professionals thrive. We create spaces and experiences that make onboarding easier, foster connections, and build confidence through learning opportunities.

COLMORE EXECUTIVE

Colmore Executive is the working party oice of the business community within Birmingham Colmore. We ensure programmes respond to real business needs, scrutinise how levy investment delivers value, and champion Colmore’s interests with government and stakeholders.

SEPTEMBER-NOVEMBER 2025

152

Reports of removing dumped items on the pavements

137

Reports of removing graffiti or stickers 78

Reports assisting business cleaning on private land

720

Hours of litter picking in the District

DEEP

CLEANING IN:

Colmore Square

Colmore Row

Barwick Street

Cornwall Street

Livery Street

New Market Street

A YEAR BURSTING WITH CULTURE, FOOD AND SPORT:

2026 IN BIRMINGHAM

Birmingham is gearing up for an exciting 2026. From shimmering light trails to world-class sport, mouthwatering food festivals to cultural celebrations that bring the city together, 2026 promises a calendar filled with colour, energy and unforgettable shared moments.

Here’s your first look at the standout events lighting up the months ahead… The year begins with a burst of brilliance as BIRMINGHAM LIGHT FESTIVAL returns from 12–15 February, illuminating the city centre with interactive installations and glowing art trails. Just days later, on 17 February, the city comes alive with colour, sound and celebration for the Lunar New Year, marking the Year of the Horse with parades, performances and community festivities.

As spring arrives, the city gathers pace. THE AJ BELL GREAT BIRMINGHAM RUN on 3 May transforms the streets into a festival of fitness, drawing thousands of runners and supporters.

Only a week later, wine lovers descend on the Grand Hotel in the heart of the District for the WINE SHOWCASE on 9 May, a celebration of vineyards, vintages and expert tastings.

May brings one of the city’s most vibrant weekends: BIRMINGHAM PRIDE , filling 23–24 May with joyful parades, headliners and community spirit.

June also sees Birmingham step onto the world stage as it hosts the ICC WOMEN’S T20 CRICKET WORLD CUP from 10–17

June, a major moment for global sport in the city. Summer officially lands with the return of the much-loved COLMORE FOOD FESTIVAL on 3–4 July, showcasing the very best of local chefs, cafés and culinary talent.

Then from 24 July–6 August, the streets hum with music as the BIRMINGHAM JAZZ & BLUES FESTIVAL fills the city with live performances.

August promises a great line-up.

THE EUROPEAN ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIP runs 10–16 August, bringing elite competitors to Birmingham, just as the cultural spectacular Birmingham Weekender returns later in the month with dance, theatre, art and familyfriendly experiences.

As summer fades, BIRMINGHAM HERITAGE WEEK arrives in September, unlocking the city’s stories through tours, trails and special open-door events. The first ever BIRMINGHAM TRANSPORT FESTIVAL races into the city-centre, and rhe month concludes with a new favourite: INTERNATIONAL DAY OF BIRMINGHAM on 24 September, celebrating the city’s identity, diversity and global connections. Finally, as the nights draw in, the city is transformed by the bustle of the christmas markets and sculpture trails across November and December, a festive finale to a year packed with reasons to explore, experience and celebrate Birmingham.

Pictured: The Great Birmingham Run and Birmingham Heritage Week

12 - 15 February 2026

Birmingham Light Festival 17 February 2026

Lunar New Year Celebrations 3 May 2026

AJ Bell Great Birmingham Run 9 May 2026

Wine Showcase 23 and 24 May 2026

Birmingham Pride Weekend 10 - 17 June 2026

ICC Women’s T20 Cricket World Cup 3 - 4 July 2026

Colmore Food Festival

24 July - 6 August 2026

Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival 10-16 August 2026

European Athletics Championship August 2026

Birmingham Weekender 2026 September 2026

Birmingham Heritage Week

18 - 20 September 2026

Birmingham Transport Festival 24 September 2026

International Day of Birmingham November and December 2026

Birmingham Christmas Markets