Recently submitted plans by City architecture practice Howells aim to revitalise one of Birmingham’s most cherished attractions, the grade II*-listed Birmingham Botanical Gardens in Edgbaston. The proposal outlines a comprehensive restoration project deemed “urgent and extensive,” as highlighted by the CEO, Sara Blair-Manning. Historic England has flagged the future of the gardens as ‘at risk,’ necessitating immediate attention to preserve this vital heritage site.
The Birmingham Botanical Gardens, spanning 15 acres and home to over 10,000 botanical species, is poised for a significant transformation. The project’s primary objective is to restore and adapt the site’s historic assets, including four Victorian glasshouses, to meet contemporary horticultural needs. This initiative, named ‘Growing Our Green Heritage,’ is supported by a grant from the National Lottery Heritage Fund.
According to Sara Blair-Manning, this restoration project represents the final opportunity to safeguard the botanical gardens. She noted, “The gardens offer a rich, uniquely biodiverse natural environment, one mile from the city centre and we know, through consultation, that they are hugely treasured by the people of Birmingham and the West Midlands. They need urgent and extensive restoration and repairs and are considered at risk by Historic England.”
The project aims to create a low-carbon, sustainable future for the gardens while preserving their historical significance. The restored gardens will continue to connect the community with culture, heritage, and nature within an urban setting. Ms Blair-Manning expressed gratitude to The National Lottery Heritage Fund and National Lottery players for their financial backing, which is crucial for the project’s success.
Sandeep Shambi, partner at Howells, shared his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are delighted to have submitted plans for the Birmingham Botanical Gardens which is one of the last independent botanical gardens in the UK and so it’s vitally important that this important heritage asset is conserved but also given space to develop. We are working in collaboration with their talented team to help preserve the gardens for future generations and create jobs and opportunities for people in Birmingham.” Howells is collaborating with conservation specialists and historic buildings consultants Donald Insall Associates to ensure the project’s success.
The restoration of the Birmingham Botanical Gardens is not just a preservation effort but a visionary project aimed at ensuring its historical and cultural assets continue to thrive for future generations. By addressing the urgent restoration needs and planning for a sustainable future, this initiative promises to reinforce the gardens’ status as a key attraction in Birmingham.
