Agents have reacted with dismay to news that large parts of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter could be listed.
Some have called the move a “nightmare” that will stifle development in the area.
The historic area has recently seen much redevelopment – especially residential. But after this week’s recommendation by English Heritage for the listing of 120 buildings, Knight Frank residential expert David Fenton declared: “This is a nightmare. It will stall development in the area. Developers with existing proposals will have to work through this – but future interest in the Jewellery Quarter will definitely be hindered.”
Instead, Fenton believes the decision to list a swathe of the quarter will “make us all focus on other parts of the city for regeneration – such as Eastside”.
However, Wayne Pell, the council’s liaison and community affairs manager for the Jewellery Quarter, said the council backed the listing. “This is exactly what developers want: clear and precise guidelines. Ambiguity is far more offputting,” he said.
Dr Martin Cherry, director of national programmes at English Heritage, said: “Listing is not meant to fossilise a building. It ensures the architectural and historic interest of the building is carefully considered before any alterations are agreed.”
Donald Insall Associates produced the draft Jewellery Quarter Conservation Character and Appraisal and Management Plan for English Heritage and Advantage West Midlands.
