Bruntwood SciTech has formally joined a new collaboration with Birmingham’s leading academic and civic institutions to establish the Birmingham Knowledge Quarter (B-KQ), a major new innovation district positioned at the heart of the West Midlands Investment Zone.

The Collaboration Agreement brings together Bruntwood SciTech, Aston University, Birmingham City University, Birmingham City Council and the Woodbourne Group, with support from the West Midlands Combined Authority. The partnership aims to deliver over 580,000 sqm of commercial and innovation space, generating more than 22,000 highly skilled jobs and positioning Birmingham as a nationally significant hub for research, development and high-growth sectors.

Envisioned as a globally connected cluster for life sciences, digital health, fintech and advanced manufacturing, the B-KQ aligns with the city’s Our Future City framework and supports inclusive economic growth across the region.

A key asset within the Knowledge Quarter is Enterprise Wharf, a 120,000 sq ft smart-enabled innovation hub designed by Bruntwood SciTech to support the scaling of tech and innovation-led businesses. Adjacent to the new HS2 Curzon Street station, the wider B-KQ district offers strategic connectivity to major research centres across the UK.

Faraday Wharf, another anchor site, is available to new and expanding businesses with the added benefit of full business rates relief for five years under the Investment Zone framework, available until March 2034. The offer is aimed at supporting inward investment and fast-tracking the growth of high-potential enterprises.

Chris Oglesby, chief executive of Bruntwood SciTech, described the Knowledge Quarter as a “new blueprint” for embedding innovation within the fabric of the city. “Through close partnership with the city’s academic, civic and commercial leaders, we’re helping shape this next chapter for Birmingham,” he said.

Bruntwood SciTech is already active in the region through projects such as Centre City and the Birmingham Health Innovation Campus, and the company said the B-KQ represents a step change in its mission to deliver purpose-built infrastructure for the knowledge economy.

The Knowledge Quarter is being developed with a focus on long-term sustainability and community benefit, aiming to attract global talent while creating opportunities for local residents. The partnership has invited innovators, investors and businesses to engage with the district as it evolves into a leading destination for science, technology and enterprise.