Birmingham Newman University is preparing for the demolition of one of its oldest and most storied accommodation blocks, Edgbaston Halls.
This block dates back to the construction of Newman College in 1966. The move marks a significant step in the University’s Estates masterplan, which aims to modernise facilities and enhance the student experience.
Over the past few weeks, the university has undertaken extensive preparations to ensure the process is both environmentally responsible and carried out safely. An environmental clean-up has begun, involving the removal of internal materials to ensure the site is safe for demolition workers and the surrounding environment. The building has undergone a “soft strip” – a process where non-structural internal fixtures and fittings are removed, setting the stage for the complete demolition of the structure.
Birmingham Newman University has donated mattresses and fridge freezers from the accommodation block to a local charity, providing much-needed resources to those in need. The university has also prioritised recycling as much of the building’s contents as possible. In an effort to be more sustainable, wooden bedframes, wooden shelving, radiators, wiring, and other reusable materials have been carefully extracted and sorted for recycling.
As part of the soft strip process, all furniture has been removed, leaving the rooms empty and ready for the next phase. During the clean-up inside the halls, the internal team at Newman discovered some beautiful, heartwarming messages left by students over the years, with some dating back as far as 1996. These messages are a testament to the sense of community and connection that Edgbaston Halls fostered for so many of its students over the years.
“Birmingham Newman University is committed to keeping everyone informed about the progress of this project. If you have any questions or would like further information about these developments, please attend one of the scheduled drop-in clinics. Thursday, 20th June, 2pm – 3pm, St Chads Atrium and Tuesday, 11th July, 2pm – 3pm, St Chads Atrium” – Birmingham Newman University
For updates on the demolition and redevelopment process, visit www.newman.ac.uk/estates-development.
