‘It’s going to be seismic’: Birmingham City CEO Garry Cook reacts to Sports Quarter plans

The fortunes of Birmingham City FC are flourishing following the announcement of exciting plans for the club to be at the heart of a new globally recognised Sports Quarter for the city.

BCFC owners Knighthead this morning (Tuesday, April 9) confirmed that they had purchased for 48-acre former Wheels site on Bordesley Park which will be the new home for the historic club.

In addition to a new stadium Knighthead unveiled plans for the Sports Quarter which would feature high-performance training facilities and other mixed use real estate development including a range of ‘entertainment options’ - creating around 3,000 local jobs.

Birmingham City Football Club CEO Garry Cook is ecstatic about the plans which he believes will create a seismic impact on the reputation of Brum.

BCFC CEO Garry Cook reacts to Birmingham Sports Quarter plans - full statement

Garry Cook, CEO of Birmingham City Football Club, said: “The Birmingham City story dates back to 1875 when the Small Heath Alliance team was formed. A blue thread based on teamwork, entertainment and unbreakable community spirit was created. 

“This is the strength of our brand. Our owners have an ambition that is greater than anything this Club has ever seen, and when we deliver it the impact on the global reputation of Birmingham will be seismic.

“Tom Wagner, in his May 8 2023 Letter to Fans, asked supporters to hold Knighthead accountable to six commitments. One of those was for Birmingham City Football Club to build on the pivotal role it plays in the economic, social, and cultural landscape in the city, making sure it is always a cornerstone and positive force for good in the local community. Without doubt, today’s announcement delivers on this commitment.”

BCFC at the heart of the community in Birmingham

Knighthead has outlined how the ambition for the Sports Quarter is for it to become a globally recognisable sporting and entertainment location. The goal is for Blues to have a world class stadium, training facilities for both men and women, a new academy, community pitches and commercial space to support innovative local businesses, all within walking distance to the city centre

A spokesperson for Knighthead explained: “BCFC sits at the heart of the community in Birmingham through its activity on the pitch and the important work of the Birmingham City Foundation. The regeneration of Bordesley Green and the planned facilities for local people are central to the owners’ ambition to make a positive contribution to people from all backgrounds across the city.

“The plans will not only help realise the vision for the football club, but also deliver for East Birmingham as part of Knighthead’s plan to play a significant role in the ongoing transformation of Birmingham’s infrastructure and skyline. Once operational, the Sports Quarter should generate over 3,000 full time jobs and significantly contribute to Birmingham’s GDP.

Tom Wagner, Knighthead Co-CEO and BCFC Chairman, said: “When we invested in Birmingham City, we made it very clear that we had an ambitious vision to transform the experience for our fans and make a positive contribution to the growth and vitality of the city of Birmingham.

“The acquisition of the former Wheels site is an important next step in making this a reality. The plans for the Sports Quarter will bring global interest to our Club and to Birmingham as a whole. It is going to transform the future of our men’s, women’s and Academy teams, and the fortunes of the community that we call home. We are excited to collaborate with the fans, the local community, and key partners in Birmingham to deliver on our plans for the Sports Quarter.”

Birmingham City Council reacts to Knighthead Sports Quarter plans

Birmingham City Council leader Cllr John Cotton said: "This is a huge moment for everyone associated with Birmingham City FC, and I'm sure Knighthead's ambitious vision will excite Blues fans everywhere. 

“I want to thank our council officers who have worked so closely with the club and these exciting plans will regenerate the area, creating thousands of much needed jobs. Hopefully this is the first step on a journey to Birmingham once again being home to two Premier League football clubs."