Proposals lodged for new 14-storey tower 'attached' to grade II listed pub in Birmingham city centre

Proposals have been lodged for a new 14-storey tower which would be “attached” to a grade II listed former pub if approved.

The planning application is seeking permission for a purpose-built student accommodation scheme which could provide 182 studios at the former White Lion site in Horse Fair.

According to a design and access statement, James & Lister Lea were commissioned by John Davenport and Sons Brewery to update the pub towards the end of the 19th century.

It added that the city centre public house later became a gentleman’s pub in the early 21st century.

If these new plans are given the green light in the future, the new tower block would be attached to the former White Lion pub, which was listed for its architectural and historical interest.

A planning statement also said that the former pub is proposed to be “retained, refurbished and converted” for use as part of the student accommodation.

The ground, first and second floor levels would be converted with “minimal alteration” to the historic floor plan and the retention of significant architectural features wherever possible.

“At ground floor level, there will be amenity spaces fronting Horse Fair and Thorp Street, along with an external courtyard, laundry room, post room, toilets and cycle store,” it continued.

“An existing basement within the retained former White Lion Public House will accommodate a cinema room and plant room.

“At first floor level to the White Lion, there will be further amenity space for residents, toilets and storerooms.”

It added: “The modern extensions to the White Lion, which are specifically excluded from the listing, are proposed to be demolished to accommodate the aforementioned ground plus 13-storey building.”

It also said the development would bring  social, economic and environmental benefits to Birmingham – including “high quality and spacious” student accommodation.

Meanwhile the design statement highlighted that the site for the proposals sits within a “prime location” within the city centre.

“The scheme is only a short walking distance to the city centre and is also well connected to Chinatown and is easily accessible to the wider city with numerous transport links adjacent to the site,” it said.

“The scheme proposes to develop the White Lion site using principles set out by the city whilst protecting the important cultural context of the site.”

The planning application will be considered by Birmingham City Council’s planning committee at a later date.