From trains to cranes: how HS2 is unlocking Birmingham’s future

By Ross Fittall, Commercial Director at Paradise Birmingham developer, MEPC

Joining colleagues and contacts from across the region at the launch of a new report into how HS2 is acting as a catalyst for development across the West Midlands was a great way to highlight the importance of this ground-breaking new piece of infrastructure.

The economic benefits of HS2 are staggering, with projections in the report indicating a £10 billion boost for the region over the next decade, creating jobs, promoting skills and increasing the profile of our flourishing business community.

Even the event’s title, ‘From trains to cranes’, highlighted that beyond its role as a railway project, HS2 is pushing growth in Birmingham by attracting inward investment and fostering further and deeper global connectivity.

It’s more than just infrastructure; it’s a gateway to a more sustainable future based on growth and green jobs for our region, a place ready to thrive on the global stage.

At Paradise, we’re already capitalising on these opportunities, leveraging HS2’s potential to bring over 30,000 new jobs to the region and attract a host of major Blue Chip organisations.

We’ve seen global businesses arrive and expand at our completed phases, which is a testament to Birmingham’s appeal as a hub of opportunity and innovation.

At the report’s launch, those present appeared particularly excited to share the progress of Paradise’s residential development, our world-first Octagon, itself a towering symbol of Birmingham’s ambition in action.

As Birmingham’s tallest building, Octagon will not only reshape our skyline but also help redefine our city’s narrative. From its soaring height to its breathtaking views, Octagon embodies Birmingham’s spirit of progress today and possibility for tomorrow.

Watch the latest from HS2 including Ross Fittall, Commercial Director at Paradise Birmingham developer, MEPC, discussing the impact of this new piece of infrastructure:

Another highlight of the event was the tantalising glimpse into the future Peaky Blinders film, currently in development, courtesy of its visionary creator Steven Knight and his newly established Digbeth Loc studio site which has hugely exciting future ahead of it.

The Peaky Blinders franchise not only celebrates Birmingham’s rich cultural and historic heritage, but also underscores our commitment to showcasing the city’s unique creative identity.

At Paradise, like HS2, our vision goes beyond bricks and mortar; it’s about fostering a sense of community and connectivity as well.

Our emphasis on pedestrian links and accessibility for all across the estate is a testament to this belief, as we strive to create vibrant, city-scale spaces where commerce, culture, and community come together seamlessly.

We’re about building more than just structures; we are creating a thriving environment where people can live, work, and thrive. A whole new part of the city that makes it even more welcoming and even more relevant.

With HS2 leading the charge, Birmingham stands on the cusp of unprecedented growth and prosperity.

As the city best placed to benefit from this revolutionary new transport system, and with complementary plans already in place to make the most of it, we will make a success of our position at the heart of this new mode of connectivity.

And as the city continues to evolve and thrive, Paradise remains committed to playing its part at the heart of the action, helping to shape a brighter tomorrow for Birmingham and beyond.

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