Regeneration Digbeth

In 2017, we began acquiring land and buildings in Digbeth. For years, this historic part of Birmingham had been left behind despite being located just 500 metres from the city centre.

Digbeth was the cradle of the industrial revolution in the Midlands: home to the great factories and brands of the 19th century, as well as the Grand Union Canal and the famous Bull Ring Cattle Market.

Today, we own a 16-acre regeneration site made up of nearly 40 buildings

Including the Custard Factory, Fazeley Studios, The Bond TV Studios, Brunel’s Viaduct and countless other smaller buildings in the neighbourhood. All together, we house over 400 creative businesses from graphic designers to dance academies and post-production agencies.

In May 2021, we secured consent for a 42-acre masterplan comprising public realm, office, leisure and residential space, as well as TV studios. With the new HS2 terminal on the horizon, Digbeth will soon be just 50 minutes from London via Birmingham’s Curzon Street station. 

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From derelict to destination. Inspired by the Creative Quarter’s rich heritage, we’re bringing the estate back to life.

Inspired by the Creative Quarter’s rich heritage, we’re bringing the estate back to life. The Custard Factory is being fully refurbished, while new floating pontoons are reconnecting the area to its surrounding canals – and Duddeston Viaduct will be transformed into a public skypark. Beyond the buildings, our thriving Digbeth events business helps activate the space and attract people to the area. 

At Oval, we believe gradual changes last longer. As custodians of this historic area, we’re slowly but surely creating a fun, industrious place Birmingham can be proud of. Now a destination for work and play, day and night, Digbeth is the hub of the city’s creative sector – and the regeneration is only just getting started.

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