Full Steam Ahead for Redevelopment of Former Museum in Birmingham

July 31 2008

Developer ROSB has unveiled its designs for the transformation of the former Science Museum's engine hall at its Newhall Square development.

The images show how the former engine hall, which once housed a display of different steam engines, will become an open plan space, ideal for a restaurant, bar, retail unit or workspace.

The 487 sq m hall features exposed beams and brickwork, combining the original character of the building with contemporary skylights and glass doorways, giving it a light, airy feel.

Along with the new 100-bed Travelodge Hotel and a 1,007 sq m office building, the former engine hall forms part of the first phase of the £65 million redevelopment of the Science Museum.

The 2.3 acre site, originally home to the Elkington Plating Works, has lain derelict since 1997 when the Science Museum, which opened in 1951, closed before reopening at Millennium Point in 2001.

ROSB is building new shops, cafes, bars, offices, galleries and apartments set around a new public square fronting the canal and the first phase is due for competition in February 2009.

The scheme also has a 100-room Travelodge, which is due to open in December.

Robert Neaveson for ROSB, said the former engine hall, which opens onto Newhall Street, had been transformed into a bright, lofty space.

"The possibilities this space offers to the right commercial occupier are very diverse," he said.

"It is in a fantastic location at the heart of the Newhall Square development and would make a great home for a trendy new bar or restaurant, or a stunning workspace.

"It successfully merges the museum's original features with a clean, modern look that really does justice to the history of the building."

Details of the commercial space are available through joint agents Colliers CRE and Wright Silverwood.

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