BBC Birmingham’s new HQ plans for BBC Asian Network approved

The plans for the new home of BBC Birmingham HQ have been approved by the city council.

Once built, all teams at The Mailbox will relocate, including BBC Asian Network, Midlands Today, online teams, Radio WM and Radio 1’s Newsbeat.

The ‘The Tea Factory’ will be located in Digbeth, Birmingham, it is expected to be ready for staff to move into by 2026.

Birmingham City Council leader Cllr Ian Ward said: “As the BBC clearly recognises, this is a city on the up and I’m delighted that their new Tea Factory HQ has now secured planning permission. This represents a significant vote of confidence in Digbeth’s burgeoning creative quarter, and the BBC has a big role to play in Birmingham’s future success.

“With HS2, the Midland Metro extension and MasterChef on the way, our vision for Digbeth is to build on established creative businesses, attracting and encouraging new ones, while developing a vibrant urban community with entertainment, living and cultural opportunities.

“Now, we aim to use this BBC move as a catalyst for the wider regeneration and development of Digbeth as a hub for media and creativity.”

Head of the Midlands for the BBC, Stuart Thomas, said “This is a crucial step on the road to 2026 and the BBC having a new home in Britain’s second city. Our upcycled, dedicated building will help turbo-charge the ambition of turning Digbeth into a world-class creative quarter.

“It comes as we continue to increase output from the Midlands – just next month we’ll have a new daily programme on 1Xtra coming from Birmingham, while next week Phoenix Rise launches, a 10-part school drama set and filmed in Coventry.”