In a bold regeneration move, AP UK (Ashtrom Properties) has selected McLaren Construction to serve as construction manager for the major overhaul of Colmore Gate, one of Birmingham’s landmark 1990s towers. The project aims to transform the building into high-spec Grade A office accommodation — redefining its role in the city’s core business district.
Project Scope & Vision
- The refurbishment will deliver approximately 290,000 sq ft of modern office space, repositioning the existing structure for contemporary needs.
- Interior systems, façades, circulation, and amenities will be overhauled to meet current standards of sustainability, flexibility, and workplace experience.
- Part of McLaren’s role will include integrating the supply chain early, optimizing procurement, and aligning design, contract, and delivery teams under a unified construction management model.
Vince Lydon, McLaren’s Managing Director for Construction Management & Specialist Projects, emphasized the firm’s approach:
“This is a further success for McLaren’s construction management delivery model which allows us to form a true partnership with our client and involve the supply chain early on in the process.”
On the owner side, Guy Lewinsohn, CEO of AP UK, noted that the refurbishment project is more than just retrofitting a building — it’s reinvigorating a landmark asset at the heart of Birmingham’s business district. He expressed optimism that the renewed Colmore Gate will appeal to modern occupiers seeking quality, sustainability, and connectivity.
Why This Refurb Matters
- Regeneration in place: Rather than demolishing and rebuilding, the project opts to rejuvenate existing stock — a more sustainable, cost-aware approach.
- Market repositioning: Office demand is shifting toward flexible, high-quality space. For Colmore Gate, the upgrade positions it to compete with newer developments.
- City uplift: Refurbishing a prominent high-rise in the city centre contributes to broader efforts to revitalize Birmingham’s commercial core.
- Efficiency through collaboration: McLaren’s model of engaging the supply chain early offers potential for risk reduction, cost transparency, and smoother execution.
Challenges & Key Success Factors
- Maintaining continuity: Upgrading a fully or partially occupied urban tower requires careful phasing to reduce disruption to tenants and neighbours.
- Systems integration: The project must update electrical, HVAC, fire systems, lift infrastructure and more — all while ensuring compatibility and code compliance.
- Sustainable transformation: To hit modern ESG standards, the refurbishment must manage embodied carbon, energy performance, and specification of low-carbon materials.
- Stakeholder alignment: Success depends on seamless coordination between owner, design teams, local authorities, and construction partners.
- Cost control under modernization risk: Unforeseen structural issues or concealed deterioration may test budgets and schedules.
What to Watch Next
- The procurement strategy McLaren and AP deploy — traditional vs laminating design & build elements
- The refurb timeline and how they phase work to maintain building usability
- Efficiency standards targeted (e.g. BREEAM, EPC) and sustainability commitments
- Tenant retention or leasing strategies during and after transformation
- How this refurbishment compares to other high-rise office upgrades across UK cities
McLaren’s appointment marks a key moment in Colmore Gate’s evolution. If the project delivers on its ambitions, it may serve as a blueprint for regenerating legacy high-rises — blending performance, design and sustainability rather than starting from scratch.