Tower project boosts city’s standing

The Digbeth Beorma Quarter project will include offices, shops and apartments and feature the restoration of three historic buildings.

The 27-storey glass tower will be powered by a green energy system that draws water from ancient wells 100 metres below the city centre, a UK first.

Says city council leader Mike Whitby: “Salhia’s commitment to Birmingham is testament to the city’s international standing and its ability to attract world-class developers.

“Our reputation is growing amongst some of the most able investors and financiers in the world, and it has been a real pleasure to start a relationship with Salhia that I am sure will continue for many years.”

Beorma Quarter marks a very exciting first for Salhia, as our only direct investment into the UK

Abdulaziz Alnafisi

Board Member

Salhia

The landmark Bullring tower has attracted criticism from the council’s conservation advisory panel on the grounds that it is not the place for a tall building.

But council planners have praised the company for its willingness to work alongside officials, councillors and neighbours to resolve problems, and its commitment to the city’s future.

Salhia spokesman Keith Williams says they are not planning to just build and sell, stressing the company’s track record of retaining investments in Kuwait despite political upheavals, conflict and invasion.

And says board member Abdulaziz Alnafisi: “Beorma Quarter marks a very exciting first for Salhia, as our only direct investment into the UK.

“We were keen to develop our own project, and the due diligence we carried out, together with the enthusiasm and support for the scheme we received from the City Council, proved to us that Birmingham was the best place to invest.”

According to its website, the company has “a deep-rooted belief that the company’s employees are the real creators of wealth.

“Therefore, fundamental management priorities are to secure the highest levels of talent, knowledge and ability – paving the way for professional excellence and creativity.”

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