Topic Projects
Date 29 Jul 2021
Galliford Try has handed over The Exchange building to the University of Birmingham having successfully completed the £20m renovation project.
The building, which was recently featured on BBC television, originally opened as the Municipal Bank in 1933, is Grade-II listed and faces onto Centenary Square, to the west of the city centre. The project has seen it transformed from its previous use to become a new base in the heart of the city for the University that combines interactive public exhibitions, professional development events, entrepreneurship and research, along with a new high quality catering offer, conference and commercial hire spaces.
In addition to the extensive repurposing of the existing building, a new glass façade has been added to rear of the building, facing onto Galliford Try’s previous projects at the Arena Central site, the new headquarters for HSBC and HMRC.
Professor Tim Jones, Provost and Vice-Principal of the University of Birmingham, said: “Today, we have the keys but work will continue to provide the city with a gateway into the University so that together we can make our city a better place to live, work and learn. The Exchange is part of our commitment to provide opportunities to create a place of curiosity, celebration, collaboration and change that will bring communities together.
“This important project reflects our commitment to civic engagement and our proud role in the region as a key partner and collaborator. What we have in store in the months and years ahead will be an opportunity to bring the best of the University to the city.”
Simon Courtney, Managing Director for Galliford Try Building West Midlands and South West commented: “Despite the challenges of COVID-19 and the impact it has had on the way we had to adapt our working practices and processes, we are delighted to have completed this exciting regeneration project at the former Municipal Bank on time.
“Having been working at the Arena Central site next to the bank over the past few years, Galliford Try is proud to have redeveloped the old Bank and keep much of the fabulous features of the Grade II-listed building. It is now a first-class facility which is fit for purpose for a 21st century vibrant Birmingham and we are honoured to have continued our partnership with the University of Birmingham once again.”