British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), The Tea Factory

Birmingham, England

Project Summary

MGAC is providing cost management and health + safety services for the BBC fit-out works of the historic Typhoo Tea Factory. This ambitious endeavor aims to create a 7,804 m² purpose-built broadcast center for the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) Birmingham Headquarters.

The Tea Factory, with its roots dating back to the 1920’s, holds immense historical and architectural significance. Unused for four decades, this transformation project seeks to honor its heritage while repurposing the complex for the modern era. A key aspect of this project will involve partial demolition and regeneration, retaining the building’s character while making space for an array of editorial teams, including the Asian Network, Newsbeat, Radio WM, and Midlands Today.

Once complete, the space will feature expansive open offices, technical studios, and edit suites spanning two levels in a flexible floorplan. A rooftop pavilion will feature a staff canteen and event space, providing breathtaking views of Birmingham City Centre. Central to the design is a dynamic, multi-purpose circulation space enhanced by high-level internal bridges. These intuitive internal routes also serve as areas for spontaneous meetings, agile workstations, and social interactions.

MGAC's Role

MGAC has played a crucial role in delivering cost management and project development services from the initial design phases through construction, assisting the BBC in procuring a development partner to deliver the scheme. Collaborating closely with the project team, MGAC has actively pursued efficiencies in the design development process to mitigate cost risks and minimise project expenses. Additionally, we have conducted an embodied carbon assessment for the Tea Factory, offering a comprehensive overview of the design’s embodied carbon and identifying potential targets for reducing its carbon footprint.

Sustainability

This project places sustainability and environmental responsibility at its core. The conversion of the existing factory building presents a unique opportunity for significant embodied carbon savings. The project’s overarching goal is to deliver one of Birmingham’s first Net-Zero Carbon buildings in construction, setting a new standard for environmentally conscious development in the city.

To achieve this ambitious Net-Zero Carbon status, the project will incorporate a range of innovative features. The building will be entirely gas-free, making it equivalent to planting 14,000 trees in terms of reducing carbon emissions. The redevelopment will include 750 m² of solar panels to harness renewable energy and reduce the building’s reliance on conventional power sources. Energy-efficient air source heat pumps will be used to regulate the building’s temperature, ensuring optimal comfort while minimising carbon emissions. The project will implement rainwater recycling systems for toilet use, reducing water consumption and promoting sustainable practices. A brown roof will be incorporated to support local ecology by creating a habitat for indigenous flora and fauna, promoting biodiversity within the urban environment. As part of the commitment to eco-friendly transportation, the broadcast center will offer 16 electric vehicle charging points to encourage the use of electric vehicles among staff and visitors.