CARILLION APPOINTED AS CONTRACTORS FOR £193 MILLION LIBRARY OF BIRMINGHAM

Carillion, the multi-national construction company, has been appointed as building contractor of the new £193 million Library of Birmingham, designed by Dutch architects Mecanoo, it was announced today.

The new building will be developed on land adjoining The Birmingham Repertory Theatre in Centenary Square, with the library and theatre joining together and sharing a number of facilities to create a unique cultural centre for knowledge, learning, arts and entertainment.

As well as a shared reception, studio performance space and catering facilities the new building will include purpose-designed study areas, new exhibition spaces, and state-of-the-art interactive displays giving access to collections of regional, national and international importance.

The delivery team, led by Capita Symonds, also includes Birmingham-based engineers, Buro Happold, and design co-ordinators, Davis Langdon Schuman Smith. The building is due to open in 2013.

Councillor Mike Whitby, Leader of Birmingham Council, said: “The Library of Birmingham development is part of a £1 billion public investment in our city and our people, vital to the future. With plans for the redevelopment of New Street Station, a major highways initiative and the expansion of Birmingham Airport, this announcement is clear evidence of the importance we attach to public funding in sustaining our economy and preparing for the future.”