Construction work has started on a new mixed-use retail and office development in north Birmingham.
Hazelmere House is being built in Mere Green and will consist of up to 3,500 sq ft of open-plan office space while an adjoining former cottage is being refurbished to provide 700 sq ft of retail space.
Sutton Coldfield-based commercial property consultancy Burley Browne has been appointed by a private investor to market the development which is expected to reach practical completion and be ready for occupation in October.
Joint managing director David Hemming said: "We are delighted to be involved in not only the design stage of this scheme over the last three to four years, providing advice on the size, layout and rental levels, but now in bringing this exciting development to market to secure suitable occupiers.
"Sutton Coldfield has unfortunately fallen behind in bringing new retail and office developments to the market.
"Hopefully, this will be the first of many new schemes that will not only allow current Sutton Coldfield businesses to grow, expand and stay but encourage new businesses to choose to invest in and move to Sutton Coldfield."
Senior surveyor Steven Hannaford added: "This exciting new development at Mere Green is a very welcome addition.
"It is the first new-build office development in Sutton Coldfield for a considerable period of time and we therefore expect there to be considerable interest from companies seeking modern space within the area.
"There is a real demand in Sutton Coldfield for new offices so that the town can provide an attractive, alternative location for businesses who might be considering relocating to Solihull or Birmingham city centre."
