A local lockdown has not chilled plans for the next phase of Birmingham’s £700M Paradise office development.

A design competition has been launched for Three Chamberlain Square, the fifth building to be built. A planning application is expected during 2021. Argent said the block will be between 120K SF and 160K SF, but a final decision has not been taken.

The shortlisted architects are: Associated Architects, Birmingham; Shedkm, Liverpool; FCB Studios, London; and Reiach and Hall, Edinburgh. It is envisaged that a winner will be revealed in October 2020.

“This is about more than just bringing forward another new building, it is also a huge vote of confidence in Birmingham,” Argent Regional Director Rob Groves said.

The Paradise redevelopment is being brought forward through Paradise Circus Limited Partnership, a public-private joint venture with Birmingham City Council. The private sector funding is being managed by Federated Hermes. Argent is the development manager.