Stage is set for great year at EditFREE • JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 Exciting plans and shows New dawn for New Street BID working with council to plan the future of historic area PAGE 2 Edit JAN/FEB 2016

Edit magazine is brought to you by FROM THE EDITOR After a year of unprecedented openings and relaunches in the Retail BID area, Retail is the Business 2016 seems to be all about planning events that capture the imagination and keep Improvement District (BID) for visitors coming back to the city centre again and again. Birmingham city centre’s retail area and has been supporting its Hot on the heels of its £2 million refurbishment Waterstones is planning a series members since 2007, promoting, of diary dates that build on its ambition to become a cultural hot-spot in the enhancing and developing the of the city centre, including author events and gaming nights. shopping and leisure experience Similarly, The New Alexandra is using the £250,000 invested in its piano bar as a in the city centre. platform for some of the best shows at the theatre in years. While the retail environment is forever changing with the And all the while Retail BID is working with stores and businesses to ensure everything is in place challenge of shopping online, to make the city centre a welcoming and safe environment. the Retail BID firmly believes New Street is at the heart of this thinking with plans afoot to transform the historic thoroughfare. in supporting the shopping A report and summit into its future has been commissioned and all interested parties are experience delivered by retailers being invited to play their part in the consultation. A thriving New Street is critical to Birmingham’s in the city centre, maintaining Birmingham’s position as the prosperity. Do have your say on how it could be shaped for future generations. regional capital for shopping. Find out more about this and all other Retail BID projects inside this edition of Edit. We hope you enjoy it. Retail BID Manager Stacey Barnfield Steve Hewlett [email protected] Deputy BID Manager Assia Sohaib [email protected] FROM RETAIL BIRMINGHAM Business Support Officer Paul Barnett This year will be important for businesses in Birmingham city centre as we will [email protected] see the opening of the Midland Metro extension from Snow Hill Station to New Street, bringing more customers into the retail core. Office: Level 4, Upper Mall West, Whilst it has been a difficult time for many members during the construction Bullring, Birmingham B5 4BU Call 0121 616 2877 period, we look to the future with optimism and we have lots of exciting plans for Visit www.retailbirmingham.co.uk this year. www.shoppinginbirmingham.com Retail Birmingham will also be going to a renewal ballot of its members during Twitter @ShoppinginBham Facebook ShoppingInBirmingham September and October, with the aim of securing a mandate for a third BID term to Instagram ShoppinginBham be able to support businesses until 2022. The BID team and board will be entering into a consultation period with members and we look Edit magazine is published by forward to hearing your views and ideas which will be extremely important to help shape the future of the city centre retail area. Steve Hewlett, Retail BID manager

PLANNERS PROVIDE FOCUS ON APPROVE MOVES BENNETTS PRIMARK TO CITY HILL AREA www.edwinelliscreativemedia.com PAVILIONS CENTRE – PAGES For more information, or for article – PAGE 16 – PAGE 10 14/15 suggestions please email [email protected]

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of all content, the publisher takes no responsibility for the accuracy of statements or content, and can accept no Centro Stakeholder liability for errors, omissions or any inconvenience. Please When I began working for Centro I couldn’t check latest details with host venues if travelling to events. Liaison Officer imagine one day I would meet the queen Nicky Haigh Page 5 Edit JAN/FEB 2016 PAGE 3 Summit to debate the future of New Street

The west end of New Street looking towards Victoria Square and Town Hall Retail BID Chairman Jonathan A report has been commissioned School for Girls, principal tenants in- from the retail, hospitality and service Cheetham to help transform one of the busiest clude Odeon Cinema, BHS, Watches sectors and we need to look closely of Switzerland, Macdonald Burlington at how it works and how new public streets in Birmingham as part of Below: An Retail BID’s proposed third term. Hotel, Lloyds Bank, Tesco tigether with realm aligned to planning strategy can aerial view of The BID is working alongside the forthcoming new Apple store in help it improve further as an important trees in full to find ways the listed Midland Bank building near destination in the city centre.” leaf on New of improving New Street to make it Corporation Street. The Retail BID has been working Street more welcoming for shoppers and Major New Street tenant Primark will with the city council to assess funding visitors to the city centre, improving be moving to the nearby Pavilions as options for any improvement works. the public realm and commercial vi- part of its landmark acquisition of the “There is identifiable funding ability of the street. High Street mall. available which we hope to access Businesses and retailers with an in- Chair of Retail Birmingham, Jonathan together to improve New Street and terest in the area will soon be invited Cheetham, said both the city council this may be a once-in-a-generation to a special summit to discuss propos- and the BID have aspirations to im- chance to get the basics right and als and debate any concerns. prove the street’s public realm, which develop an important retail landscape The 500-metre street, which dates will be a key strategy in Retail BID’s for years to come,” he said. back to the 13th century, connects proposed third term. “We aim to hold a New Street Sum- Bullring and High Street at its eastern “We are working with the city mit early this year with key stakehold- end to Victoria Square at its west end. council and Greater Birmingham Local ers, property owners and retailers Most of the street is now pedestrian- Enterprise Partnership to take the New to start to explore how we deliver a ised with the Corporation Street junc- Street project forward and to fully un- world-class street for Birmingham.” tion crossed by the new Metro tram derstand the needs and expectations route and the road loop that connects of key stakeholders to establish what To find out more about the New Temple Street to Bennetts Hill, near is the future shared vision for the street Street Summit and how you can be Piccadilly Arcade. which we can then deliver. The street involved please contact the Retail Once home to King Edward VI High has an eclectic mix of businesses BID team. PAGE 4 Edit JAN/FEB 2016 A Grand day for Her Majesty

The new safety leaflet NEW GUIDE TO SAFE WORK NEAR METRO Public transport bodies and Birmingham City Council have produced a leaflet advising busi- nesses how to work safely near the extended Midland Metro tramway. The Centro and National Express guidelines are aimed at building occupiers, contractors and event organisers working near the new route through the Retail BID area. The Midland Metro tram net- work is powered by overhead lines that run above the tramway and carry high voltage electricity. The power lines are around 18 Royal visit is The Queen officially reopened the feet at their lowest point above transformed Birmingham New Street sta- the tracks. crowning glory tion and Grand Central retail complex. Property owners intending to for stunning new Accompanied by His Royal Highness carry out work within 9 feet of The Duke of Edinburgh, Her Majesty the power lines are being re- Grand Central unveiled a plaque marking her visit – the minded of the potential dangers retail hub in the new leaflet called ‘Working first to New Street in her 62-year reign and Safely Next To Midland Metro’. her first visit to the city since her Diamond The guide also highlights haz- Jubilee tour in 2012. ard zones such as kerbs, poles The Queen and The Duke of Edinburgh and building fixes. In addition, were greeted by a host of dignitaries the leaflet talks about the authori- – including Sir Peter Hendy, chairman sation and application process of Network Rail and Mark Carne, chief latest incarnation. They also met staff who for works, along with dealing executive of Network Rail – after arriving help meet the needs of the 170,000 pas- with emergencies. at the station on the Royal Train. Pictured above: The Queen sengers who use Birmingham New Street For more information about They were shown an exhibition of the Midland Metro safe working arrives at New Street station every day. station through the ages since it was first procedures contact 0121 214 7196 and, right, New Street The new station, including the new or email [email protected] and Grand Central during built in the 1880s and were introduced to Grand Central shopping complex, was construction many of those involved in building the unveiled in September of last year after Edit JAN/FEB 2016 PAGE 5 A Grand day for Her Majesty THE DAY I MET THE QUEEN a five-year, £750 million Network Rail METRO project. The opening ceremony, which took LATEST place on the station’s stunning concourse Work on the city centre under its vast atrium, included speeches Metro extension from the Lord Mayor of Birmingham, resumed Councillor Ray Hassall, and Sir Peter immediately Hendy, before her Majesty unveiled the after Christmas special plaque which will take pride of to complete place within the station. public realm and The Queen also attended a short service pavement areas of dedication, led by the Bishop of Bir- and to move mingham, The Right Reverend David Urqu- the control unit hart, for the PALS War Memorial outside to Stephenson the new station. The PALS were volunteer Street. The Retail soldiers from the city who were involved BID is working in World War I after signing up to the army with Centro in September 1914. to minimise When the Queen opened the Metro, there to meet her was Sir Peter Hendy, chairman of Network disruption to Nicky Haigh, Stakeholder Liaison Officer at Centro. Nicky Rail, said: “It was an honour to welcome businesses in The Queen to Birmingham New Street the area, as the has worked very closely with the Retail BID team over the and be part of a very special day for scheme gets past three years resolving issues and supporting retailers Birmingham. For such an impressive and ready for its throughout the Metro build and delivery phases transformed station, it was fitting that it launch in the spring. was officially reopened by Her Majesty. When I began working for Centro in to Bull Street via Colmore Gate. Eventu- “Birmingham New Street is helping to 2013 I couldn’t have imagined that one ally we could see the Queen (dressed in boost the regeneration of the city centre day the Tram Lady (as I am now known) tram pink which especially got me ex- as well as provide the millions of pas- would be meeting the Queen. cited) and the Duke of Edinburgh. After sengers who use it with a modern, 21st In the morning I headed in to Birming- they unveiled the Angus Adams name century station. With the Grand Central ham sitting on the tram in a world of plate on the tram they began to walk development above it, it is a unique my own wondering what the day through it towards me. station which is vital to the continued de- would be like, as if the reality of Director of Centro Geoff Inskip velopment of Birmingham and the wider what was going to happen hadn’t introduced me to the Queen and region.” quite hit me. It was at that point I explained that I worked with The Queen and Duke’s visit was broad- realised this wasn’t going to be an businesses in Birmingham. cast on the station’s largest ‘media eye’ average day in Birmingham. I explained how some of the at the front of the station for the public to I decided a special day would retailers were nervous of the dis- watch while many also gathered inside. require extra effort. Luckily for me ruption caused by the tram con- Boasting an iconic new atrium over a the lovely Pam at the Dior counter struction works. The Queen smiled huge passenger concourse – five times in House of Fraser was poised and considered my comments for the size of Euston’s – the station ready to help and she made sure my a moment, then nodded but concluded was rebuilt while trains continued to run as makeup was perfect. that once all the work was complete and normal for the 170,000 passengers a day At the tram stop I met up with my col- the tram was running that the retailers who use it. leagues who were as equally nervous would like it. The new station will eventually feature and excited as I was. As we waited on Now we have the trams running into 43 shops at concourse level. Above it the tram the brass band played and the Bull Street it is wonderful to see the posi- sits the new Grand Central shopping children waved their flags more excit- tive response of the retailers. We are all complex, including one of the UK’s largest edly than ever as the flashing lights from now looking forward to seeing the trams John Lewis department stores. the motorcade could be seen coming in running to Grand Central in 2016. PAGE 6 Edit JAN/FEB 2016 Retail BID to ballot for five-year term renewal Comprehensive consultation with BID members to take place this spring

Retail Birmingham Business ments along Corporation Street.” In Improvement District (BID) has an- light of these huge changes Retail nounced details of a renewal ballot Birmingham worked with Marketing which would signal a new five-year Birmingham, Birmingham City Council, term from April 2017 to March 2022. and public If successful, it will be the Retail BID’s transport body Centro to ensure a third term. spectacular 2015 was delivered, with a Over £2 million could be raised during strong marketing campaign and series the five-year period which would be re- of events showcasing the new face of invested directly into the Retail BID area. Birmingham city centre’s retail area. There will a comprehensive consulta- The huge city-centre wide Birming- tion with all BID members from January ham Weekender arts festival took to April 2016. The Retail BID team will be place in September and Retail Birming- contacting members to establish key is- ham’s flagship fashion and shopping sues and priorities for businesses within event Style Birmingham Live 2015 also the retail area for the next five years. made a return, with an exciting line-up The outcome of the consultations will of retailers including high street stores 30 per cent reduction in litter in some go towards determin- and independent areas. ing the new five-year brands. Retail Birmingham is committed to business plan. “However we recog- continuing to support and represent BID members will nise that there are still members moving into the BID renewal receive notification of lots of challenges for period. the ballot, together businesses,” added Steve added: “There are now over with a full proposal Steve. “Not least from 200 BIDs in the UK and Retail Birming- and business plan online shopping and ham has been an important driver of in August 2016, with there is a need to change since 2007, supporting retailers ‘It is the ballot due to keep improving the at all levels, from owner-managed inde- important take place from 16 September until 13 retail area, ensuring it is clean, safe and pendents through to the major stores October 2016. promoted. It is important to increase and shopping centres, at the same time to increase Retail BID manager Steve Hewlett said: footfall, creating experiences and longer as promoting the city as a destination of “The next five years is a very important dwell times, where customers can shop, choice for shopping. footfall, time for the city centre retail area. eat and be entertained.” “As local authority funding and creating “The retail core has seen unprece- Retail Birmingham also invested more resources become more challenging, dented levels of investment in transport than £40,000 in a pavement deep- it is important, during this consultation experiences infrastructure and developments with cleaning programme, to tackle pedes- period, to understand what businesses the launch of the new £600 million trian area grime in 2015. want in the next five years and how the and longer New Street Station and Grand Central The on-going works are just one of BID can help manage and support new dwell times’ Shopping Centre, the arrival of John several initiatives launched to brighten initiatives and build on the extensive RETAIL BID MANAGER Lewis, the £50 million redevelopment the BID area which also included chew- projects we are already undertaking that help create a welcoming environ- STEVE HEWLETT, of The Mailbox and new store open- ing gum waste removal projects and a PICTURED ABOVE ings in Bullring plus the Midlands Metro charity scheme to encourage shop- ment in the core retail area for city extension and public realm improve- pers to put rubbish in bins, leading to a centre shoppers, workers and visitors.” Edit JAN/FEB 2016 PAGE 7

TV STAR EMMA VISITS The La Galleria team inside the recently-opened CITY CHARITY GROTTO restaurant on Ethel Street Birmingham-born TV star Emma Willis was one of the visitors to House of Fraser’s Christmas grotto which, for the third year, supported cancer charity Help Harry Help Others. Situated on the fifth floor of the store, visitors were able to make Harry Bracelets, see Santa in his yuletide cabin, see the Shenyun performers and experience all the magic of a traditional Christmas grotto, and only £5 for each child. Emma tweeted about her visit to the grotto, saying: “Just had the best time visiting Santa @houseoffraser @harry_mose- ley if you’re in Brum with your little ones deffo pop in #har- rygrotto2015.” Harry Moseley was an incred- ibly brave boy Emma Willis who sadly lost his battle with cancer on 8th October 2011. La Galleria lives on Inspired by Harry and his fund- The name of a once legendary Birming- Paradise Forum. It closed down but it had a Famous raising efforts, the cancer charity ham restaurant that welcomed foot- good name. And when this building (Ethel was created. ballers and celebrities lives on thanks to a Street) became available I asked my friends Birmingham Its mission is to raise funds to Sicilian-born entrepreneur. ‘what do you think of opening an Italian restaurant help with vital research and to La Galleria, near the old Central Library, restaurant here?’ and I said to myself ‘I’ve inspires new help families suffering cancer. was famous for its classic Italian dishes got to do this’ and signed it off. The charity has opened a drop- enjoyed by Midlands football managers “I took the place over two years ago. venture by Italian in cancer support centre in the Meadway area of East Birming- and TV stars alike. When I got inside it was full of old pipes entrepreneur ham, offering support for families Its popularity inspired Erminio Shahmani and air conditioning units. There were affected by the disease. to open a new version of the restaurant in metal bars on all the windows, it was like Harry’s mum Georgie Moseley, Ethel Street, in the building once occupied a prison. I fitted the new flooring and founder of the charity, said she by Chez Jules. opened the restaurant up. It was a lot of was delighted House of Fraser Not only does the new La Galleria have work, but everything is brand new. chose Help Harry Help Others ‘the Ferrari of pizza ovens’, weighing over “Where the pizza oven sits used to be an once again. “I am truly humbled two tonnes, the restaurant’s pizza chef was office but when people walk in I want food by the support of the store and headhunted at a food show in Venice and being prepared and the kitchens open as to all the customers that support persuaded to move to Birmingham. the first things they see.” the grotto each year,” she said. Erminio was born in Sicily but has lived Erminio takes pride in the simple but high “Even the lovely Emma Willis from BBC and Chan- in Birmingham for the past 18 years. “I quality ingredients used at the restaurant. nel 5 brought her left home when I was 15 to travel across “We source most of our ingredients children to the store to show her Europe,” said Erminio. direct from Italy,” he added. “The flour, oils, support which is just testament “I came to England 18 years ago and this sausage, salami, mozzarella cheese, It’s all to the wonderful experience the is my third restaurant. the best. Our ingredients are the finest and kids receive.” “There used to be a La Galleria next to cleanest.” PAGE 8 Edit JAN/FEB 2016

EXCITING CHAPTER FOR WATERSTONES Waterstones general manager Stuart Bartholomew has revealed Bin it for Good litter how the bookseller’s £2 million refit of its High Street store has led to an exciting events pro- gramme for 2016. The store is aiming to become scheme a success a centre of cultural activity with author events, group activities, Three-month trial sees reduction in street litter across Retail BID area a monthly gaming night, book groups and a weekly adult co- A pilot project designed to encourage louring session. people to dispose of litter responsibly The ten-week refurbishment has been hailed a success. involved stripping out and re- The Bin it for Good initiative, run for placing all bays and flooring; the three months between September and reopening of the basement and November 2015, has led to a five per cent the withdrawal from the Pavilions reduction in litter on streets in the main on the third and fourth floors. retail areas of the city centre. A new store frontage was also built, with wood and a two-sto- Under the scheme, supported by Bir- rey pane of glass replacing the mingham City Council, Keep Britain Tidy, old sunken single-storey window. Retail BID and The Wrigley Company, a With the New Street branch number of bins in the city centre were closing as designated with stickers – explaining if part of the more waste was disposed in them, more project, cash would be raised on a “sliding scale” there was a basis for LoveBrum, a Birmingham-based massive job charity supporting a number of local in transport- good causes. ing all of During the three-month trial, the New Street’s 30,000 percentage of litter waste picked up volumes of within the Retail BID area decreased, as remaining a percentage of overall waste fell from stock across 10.05 per cent to 4.94 per cent. Therefore, town under Manager Stuart the percentage placed responsibly in the cover Bartholomew bins rose from 89.95 per cent to 95.06 per of darkness cent. the weekend before the October This meant that LoveBrum received 2015 opening. £1,350 for good causes, under the terms “Our author events got off to of the initiative, as agreed at its launch in a great start, with Marlon James, Jonathan Coe, David Walliams the late summer. and Julian Clary all visiting before Cllr Lisa Trickett, Cabinet Member for Christmas,” said Stuart. Sustainability, said: “Given we spend £13 “But the highlight for me was million annually on street cleaning, we are hearing Miles Hunt from The delighted with the results from this pilot Wonder Stuff read from his project.” diaries and sing a few songs to a Tim Andrews, Chairman of LoveBrum, rapt audience on our cafe floor. said: “LoveBrum is a ‘movement’ for a “We are working closely better Birmingham, it unearths and funds with local organisations such added: “The Bin it for Good campaign Cllr Lisa Trickett, Birmingham hard to reach, hidden gem charities and City Council, Tim Andrews, as Writing West Midlands and organisations, which are helping to make has been very positive. We have seen Ikon Gallery to reach as many of LoveBrum and Steve Hewlett, Birmingham a better place to live and people using the bins more often, helping Retail BID Birmingham Birmingham’s booklovers as pos- to keep the city centre shopping streets sible for future events.” work, so our objectives are perfectly aligned.” clean whilst raising money for a great Steve Hewlett, Retail BID manager, charity.” Edit JAN/FEB 2016 PAGE 9

Watches of Switzerland’s New Street store and General Manager Lloyd Morgan, below

Bill’s Restaurant at Bullring BILL’S BRINGS WORLD TASTES TO BULLRING Restaurant chain Bill’s has Good times: VIP bash opened at Bullring. The restaurant, which has 60 outlets across the country, has taken the unit next to Selfridges formerly occupied by fashion store Mango, which has moved for store’s relaunch to a new unit inside the centre. The long awaited Watches of Swit- this in with our pre-Christmas ‘Meet the Bill’s is a vibrant diner-style Watches of Watchmaker’ event,” he added. restaurant with Mediterranean zerland newly refurbished showroom meals, mezze sharing dishes and Switzerland hosted the first of many VIP events in “We had Breguet, one of the oldest a steaks and grill selection also celebrates November, which gave Lloyd Morgan watch manufacturers in the world here, on its lunch menu. expansion and General Manager and his team the op- with a watchmaker present at his bench. The restaurant has built a new portunity to host guests. Clients were able to experience an artisan outside seating area with views new brands The store has recently doubled in size at work, which was really interesting. across to St Martin’s Church. with exclusive with a comprehensive brand line up and “A lot of our clients have a big appre- Bill’s started life as a café in east unique areas giving the client the oppor- ciation of the technical and artistic skills Sussex in 2001 since when it has gathering tunity to be exposed more to a boutique behind the micro-engineering at that level. grown to around 65 restaurants, feel for brands like Rolex, Omega, IWC “We had a great turnout for the event predominantly in London and the and Breguet; Winston Churchill’s favourite with more than 90 guests who joined us south of England, with a quartet watch. for Champagne and canapes.” of Midlands sites in Leamington Spa, Worcester, Nottingham and Lloyd was on hand to welcome guests Lloyd explained how the additional Leicester. and tell them about the unique features of space in the store is being used for new Bill’s joins nearby restaurants in the showroom, with increased activity on brands. the Spiceal Street area, a devel- New Street thanks to Grand Central and “Breguet are new for the showroom, opment which opened in 2011 the soon-to-launch new Apple store and along with Hublot,” he said. and added Chaophraya, Browns Watches of Switzerland creating an excit- “We’re pleased to be able to have these Bar & Brasserie, Handmade ing time for this part of the city. brands as there is nowhere else stock- Burger Co and Jamie’s Italian to “The relaunch hosted our clients on ing them in the Midlands and it takes the Bullring’s list of food and drink November 25th and we were able to tie showroom to another level.” outlets. PAGE 10 Edit JAN/FEB 2016

INSTA CITY what our retailers have been snapping Busy arcade provides space for new store

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The finishing touches being applied to Provide, above, and store owner Matt Nation, right botanistbham Got to love Move from has welcomed available space. “The whole thing hap- a good watering can sharer another new retailer to its thriving inde- pened in two weeks from the initial phone cocktail! for pendents scene. call. With it being so close to Christmas I design store Clothing, gifts and design-led magazines just wanted to be open,” he explained. retailer Provide has moved from Digbeth’s “We spent two days stripping and two to open a store in the days painting the walls and used almost all bustling arcade. the materials from the old shop. Provide founder Matt Nation told Edit “The centre-piece table is the mirror from magazine how his move to the city centre the old changing room and the book- happened in just a couple of weeks. shelves are the walls of the changing room, “I closed the Custard Factory shop in cut down. August and had a conversation with Great “We didn’t want Provide to lose its Cus- Western Arcade who were really keen on tard Factory roots and this is a nice tie-in the brand but at the time didn’t have a suit- that would bring the old with us. able unit available,” said Matt. “Great Western Arcade is making a real “They kept me on file as someone they effort to bring a certain type of brand into said they wanted to work with and when the arcade and stores like the Liquor Store, What’s your New Year’s bullring this unit became available they gave me a Loki Wines and Sushi Passion are spear- Resolution? Ours is to eat more call straight away to tell me I could have it heading this. food like this… #instafood on a short-term licence.” “The landlords are trying to turn the #CafeRouge #healthy Matt ‘jumped at the chance’ to take the arcade into a real destination.” Edit JAN/FEB 2016 PAGE 11

£250k Piano Bar at heart of New Alexandra’s exciting plans for 2016

Tilt’s classic pinball machines NEW BAR IS FLIPPING MARVELLOUS! Pinball wizards and craft beer fans will be in their element at a new city centre bar. Tilt Birmingham is bringing premium beers and ‘the top 5% of coffee produced in the world’ The new Piano Bar at the New Alexandra Theatre in Birmingham to the Grade II listed City Arcade off Union Street. Kirk Sadler and Richard Kimber- ley, who will use their expertise of CAMRA membership and working for BrewDog, are behind the new venture. Stage is set for great Alongside coffee roasted in Helston in Cornwall, the bar stocks baked goods supplied by BAKE, located in . A whole corner of Tilt is dedi- cated to classic pinball machines year at city theatre to ‘increase social interaction and friendly competitiveness’, A brand new production of the Noel A new Piano Bar was opened follow- according to owners Richard ing a £250,000 refurbishment plan by Coward classic Private Lives, death-de- and Kirk, who are also keen to fying magic show Impossible and the Ambassador Theatre Group. This saw host clubs such as mother and explosive Green Day musical American the two separate bar areas in the Station baby mornings, book clubs and Idiot are just some of the productions Street theatre redeveloped in a move to a pinball children’s club in the lined up at the New Alexandra Theatre dramatically improve the theatre’s public morning, when alcohol is not in 2016. spaces. being served. Also featured in the line-up are Richard This was part of a £1 million redevelop- Tilt’s City Arcade premises also O’Brien’s Rocky Horror Show, Breakfast ment which was ongoing since 2013, benefits from the new Metro At Tiffany’s starring Pixie Lott, and Gareth which has also seen brand new seats and route and a tram stop on nearby Gates in Footloose the Musical. carpets in Stalls and Dress Circle including Corporation Street. The year sets to build on the successes ProBax Technology, a brand new orches- Follow @Tilt_Brum on Twitter for more information about the in 2015, when the venue welcomed the tra pit, and extensive improvements back bar. regional premiere of West End hits East of house, along with greater accessibility is East and Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, and a for wheelchair users. star-studded run of The Producers starring Andrew Lister, General Manager of Jason Manford and Louie Spence. the New Alexandra Theatre said: “The 2015 also saw Birmingham Stage refurbishment was part of ATG’s ongoing Company taking up residence at the investment to ensure we can continue to venue, with the world premiere of David offer a World Class theatre experience.” Walliams’ Gangsta Granny in December More information on shows at www. becoming the most successful show in atgtickets.com/birmingham or by calling Pixie Lott their history. 0844 871 3011. Booking fees apply. City Arcade and Tilt, left PAGE 12 Edit JAN/FEB 2016 HOST car rough-sleeper aid scheme is extended Multi-agency city centre project has helped more than 100 people in its first three months A trial project to help rough sleepers and tackle nuisance begging in Birming- ham city centre has been extended for another three months. The dedicated Homeless Street Tri- age (HOST) car – provided by housing group Midland Heart and introduced by Birmingham Police, Birmingham City Council, and homeless support agencies − is responding to a growing number of calls reporting anti-social behaviour in the Retail BID area. The project was launched at the begin- ning of September and in its first three months it helped 100 people, placed 145 in emergency beds and made one arrest. The next three-month phase of the project, which started mid December, involves an early and late HOST team on patrol in the city centre at 7.30am and 10pm. The team has also split into two with an outreach car staffed by Midland Heart support workers and an enforcement car staffed by a Proactive team officer and is to sensitively and responsibly respond The HOST car team in city centre team officer. REPORTING AN ISSUE to the complex needs of individuals who Birmingham city centre West Midlands Police took just over have ended up sleeping on the streets Members of the public are en- 1,000 calls about homelessness and beg- to ensure they get the help and support couraged to alert homeless charity ging between May 2014 and April 2015. they need.” Streetlink to any rough sleepers via Homeless hotspots were around New Each year Midland Heart supports over www.streetlink.org.uk, by call- Street, Corporation Street, John Bright 7,000 individuals to thrive and live inde- ing 0300 500 0914 or by using the Street and Smallbrook Queensway, pendent lives. Streetlink app. while most begging complaints directed Raj Shroff, Deputy Director for Care To report begging or anti-social officers to Bull Street, New Street and and Support at Midland Heart, added: street drinking call West Midlands Po- Ladywell Walk. “This is a fantastic partnership which sees lice on the 101 non-emergency number. Cllr John Cotton, Cabinet Member for our outreach team working with police Neighbourhood Management & Homes, to engage individuals who’ve found said: “This multi-agency, targeted ap- themselves without accommodation is themselves sleeping on the streets of proach to the plight of people finding very welcome in our city. Its main focus Birmingham.” Edit JAN/FEB 2016 PAGE 13

The new-look Harvey Nichols HARVEY NICHOLS SCOOPS TOP AWARD Harvey Nichols Birmingham has been named Best Depart- ment Store of the Year in the prestigious Retail Week Interior Awards. Judges described the innova- tive store, designed in collabora- tion with Virgile + Partners, as “a departure from the sector norm” and “futuristic”, conclud- Guests at Castle Fine Art’s relaunch event; an exhibition of works by local graffiti artist Temper, who signed brochures (right) ing “lighting, materials and tech all combined to make this a clear category leader.” The new Harvey Nichols at the Mailbox has won high praise since first opening its doors in Temper draws a July last year. From its Calacatta Vaggi Italian marble floor to the impressive LED entrance, it has quickly become the most talked about luxury retail environment in the crowd to Mailbox city. Graffiti artist The newest addition to Birmingham’s The Hulk, The Joker, Iron Man, Spiderman Set across 45,000 square feet, gallery scene relaunched at The Mailbox and Kick-Ass. the store combines innova- helps launch with an exhibition of works by celebrated Created and pioneered by Temper, his tive technology – including 37 new-look gallery graffiti artist Temper. ‘Popcorn’ technique involves the reap- digital screens and a 360-degree Castle Fine Art re-opened in the city’s plication of a single stencil of his iconic “magic” mirror – with leading with Popcorn design features. premiere lifestyle and retail destination in signature or ‘tag’. exhibition The prestigious Retail Week December after closing for refurbishment The artist, signed by Washington Green Interiors awards celebrate the in 2013. in 2014, said: “Growing up in the Midlands, very best in retail design from It has now relaunched as the flagship Birmingham is a city close to my heart and around the world and this year store for Castle, which boasts a nationwide I’m proud to have a newly curated exhibi- featured 15 categories that network of 35 retail galleries that exclusive- tion of my work in this fantastic gallery.” set the benchmark within the ly stock work from Washington Green. Ian Weatherby-Blythe, Managing Director industry. Temper, aka Arron Bird, returned to the of Castle Galleries and Castle Fine Art, “We have had nothing but art world with a bang with his new Pop- said: “In its 20 year history, Castle has been praise from industry experts and corn exhibition, featuring a collection of instrumental in making fine art accessible. customers since we launched works inspired by superheroes. “We are proud to launch our new flag- in the summer and are rightfully proud of our amazing space,” Popcorn refers to the unique technique ship gallery in The Mailbox with an exhibi- said Harvey Nichols General used by Temper to create his latest body tion from Temper, one of the most talented Manager Richard Vickery. of work, which features Captain America, artists of his generation.” PAGE 14 EditEdit NOV/DEC JAN/FEB 20162015

WHO’S WHO IN BENNETTS HILL AREA

ADAM’S New Oxford House A bite out of 16 Waterloo Street B2 5UG 0121 643 3745 adamsrestaurant.co.uk @RestaurantAdams This is Michelin-starred British fine-dining. Adam’s Restaurant offers two tasting menus with a thoughtful wine list to match. Bennetts Hill AMANTIA 9-10 Bennetts Hill, B2 5RS Spotlight on city centre’s new 0121 643 3647 amantiarestaurant.co.uk @RestAmantia must-visit food and drink area A family-run Spanish and Mediterranean restaurant offering up sunshine food: tapas, From Michelin-starred cuisine to paella and crepes. award-winning craft beers, the Ben- ASK ITALIAN netts Hill area of Birmingham city 56 New Street, B2 4DU centre is fast becoming a 0121 643 1212 askitalian.co.uk food and drink hotspot. @AskItalian The area, which en- This family favourite offers pastas, pizzas compasses Bennetts Hill, and risottos and a good children’s menu. Temple Street, Temple BELLA ITALIA Row and Waterloo Street 102 New Street, B2 4HQ is now home to dozens 0121 643 1548 bellaitalia.co.uk of bars, restaurants and @Big_bella Classic crispy pizzas, piping hot bowls cafes serving a mouthwa- of pasta and succulent grills – there’s tering selection of world something for everyone at the newly cuisine and drinks. refurbished Bella Italia. At the heart of the area are the historic former BODEGA CANTINA 12 Bennetts Hill, B2 5RS Waterloo Street banking buildings of the 0121 448 4267 bodegacantina.co.uk Cosy Club and Lost & Found bars; both @BodegaBirm BID Deputy with unique and stunning interiors. Mexican and South American food inspired Manager Adam’s Restaurant, which is now on by Bodega’s team and their travels. The Assia Sohaib Waterloo Street, has won a host of cu- sweet potato fries are Birmingham legend. linary awards and is recipient of a cov- THE BOTANIST eted Michelin star; one of Birmingham’s 14-16 Temple St, B2 5BG five restaurants to hold the accolade. 0121 600 7430 thebotanist.uk.com Temple Street is home to celebrated @BotanistBham The Botanist will make you re-think the Italian restaurant San Carlo, popular pub cocktail. Soak up the drinks with platters The Trocadero and recently-opened inspired by the deli, rotisserie and BBQ plus The Botanist with its charming outdoor other home comforts. ‘We’re in seating area in the recently-renovated Cheltenham House building. THE BRIAR ROSE discussion 25 Bennetts Hill, B2 5RE Retail BID Deputy Manager Assia So- 0121 634 8100 jdwetherspoon.co.uk with the haib explained how the BID is working @jdwtweet with partner organisations to ensure Everything you’d expect from J D council about the area flourishes and is welcoming to Wetherspoon: comfort food, served all day. a number of visitors. BUFFALO AND RYE “We’re in discussion with the city 11 Bennetts Hill, B2 5RS issues such council about a number of environmen- 0121 643 3312 buffaloandrye.co.uk tal concerns in and around Bennetts @buffaloandrye as parking’ Hill and Temple Street, such as car and American Inspired, Made in Birmingham - meats, whiskeys & cocktails. RETAIL BID DEPUTY delivery driver parking issues and visitor MANAGER ASSIA SOHAIB safety,” she said. Edit NOV/DECJAN/FEB 2016 2015 PAGE 15

WHO’S WHO IN BENNETTS HILL AREA

COLMORE BAR & GRILL Premier Inn, 3-6 Waterloo St, B2 5PG 0121 616 4440 colmorebarandgrill.co.uk @Colmoreg The place for steaks and burgers, plus the hero triple sundae.

THE COSY CLUB 33 Bennetts Hill, B2 5SN 0121 695 1131 cosyclub.co.uk/birmingham @CosyClubBrum Contemporary pub food in the former Midland Bank.

LA GALLERIA 5A Ethel Street, B2 4BG 0121 643 5933 lagalleria-birmingham.co.uk @lagalleriabham Head here for pizza cooked before your eyes at the open pizza-bar.

THE LOST & FOUND 8 Bennetts Hill, B2 5RS 0121 643 9293 the-lostandfound.co.uk @hettiegwatson Traditional British classics in a Victorian botanical hideaway.

SAN CARLO 4 Temple Street, B2 5BN 0121 633 0251 sancarlo.co.uk @SanCarlo_Group A Birmingham stalwart, known for flavoursome Italian food in luxurious yet comfortable surroundings.

SAN CARLO FUMO 1 Waterloo St, B2 5PG 0121 643 8979 sancarlofumo.co.uk @SanCarlo_Fumo Chic modern Italian dining with cocktails and a late lounge.

THE TROCADERO Temple Street, B2 5DG 0121 643 6107 thetrocaderobirmingham.co.uk Perfect, if you’re looking for a good old- fashioned pub in Birmingham.

SUN ON THE HILL 23 Bennetts Hill, B2 5QP 0121 448 7966 thesunonthehill.co.uk Clockwise from top: Cosy Club @SunontheHill and The Lost & Found at the Enjoy burgers, hot-dogs and wraps with junction of Bennetts Hill and live music and a buzzy atmosphere. Waterloo Street; Fumo; The Lost & Found entrance; a memorial to leading Birmingham-born WAGAMAMA 98 New Street, B2 4HS artist Edward Burne-Jones; 0121 296 1378 wagamama.com Adam’s Restaurant branding; @wagamama_uk Waterloo Street and restaurants Who doesn’t love Wagamama? Modern on Bennetts Hill Asian cuisine to warm the soul. PAGE 16 Edit JAN/FEB 2016

New Street The view from Moor Street Station RETAIL BID AREA’S FOOTFALL FIGURES The Retail BID has a network of 12 pedestrian counting cameras throughout the main retail area operated by Footfall. Weekly and monthly reports are available to BID members by contacting the team. The figures for December 2015 are as follows;

Week commencing 30 November 2015 2,091,895 Architects’ impressions of the High Street entrance to Primark Pavilions Pictures: 3D Reid 07 December 2015 Planners say ‘yes’ to 2,022,580 Primark Pavilions 14 December 2015 City council The new Primark Pavilions retail re- Birmingham architecture practice 3D Reid. generation scheme has won unanimous Existing tenants such as H&M, Marks gives unanimous support from Birmingham planners for & Spencer, Three and Thorntons are 2,094,494 support to vast its revamp of the High Street shopping expected to stay at Primark Pavilions once retail scheme centre. the redevelopment is complete while Primark, part of the Associated Brit- Primark’s New Street store will close. 21 December 2015 ish Foods conglomerate, is planning to Members of Birmingham City Council’s remodel the building’s existing structure to planning committee voted unanimously to create a new four-storey centre. approve its redevelopment and they were 1,314,800 Architects’ impressions show Primark’s particularly enthusiastic about the views plans for the 263,600 sq ft centre in High which will greet visitors arriving at Moor Street and a new view from Moor Street Street Station and the new HS2 Curzon Station, following its landmark acquisition. Street station. 28 December 2015 The project will also involve a new Committee member Peter Douglas pedestrian access route running between Osborn said: “We are full of anticipation. Moor Street and High Street and new People coming into the station will be 1,189,469 façades fronting these two streets. impressed by what they see. It is like a The scheme has been designed by theatre curtain opening.”