Birmingham towers recommended for approval despite concerns

Plans for two residential towers overlooking Birmingham’s Gas Street Basin canalside area have been recommended for approval, despite concerns from heritage and waterways groups. The proposals, part of the Arena Central masterplan, would add buildings of 30 and 17 storeys delivering 526 apartments plus retail and commercial space, communal facilities and landscaped public areas. The Canal and River Trust warned about the “scale and massing” near heritage assets, while Historic England questioned the height of the 30-storey tower. A Birmingham planning officer said no heritage assets would be physically harmed and recommended approval subject to a legal agreement. The committee is set to consider the plans on 12 November.