Plans for the construction of a tower which is expected to change the skyscape of Birmingham and make the city a commercial attraction for businesses are awaiting approval by the Birmingham City Council. The plans were submitted by the Regal Property Group this week.

The plans outline the construction of a multiuse office-come residential complex that will satisfy a range of needs for the city’s residents and newcomers alike. A 56-storey office area, complete with other business needs like conference space and meeting rooms etc will make the tower, christened the Regus, a favoured business destination for large corporate houses.

Residential accommodation with retail spaces, a winter garden, a sky bar and boutiques will make the building equally attractive to both the sophisticated visitor and the leisure seeker.

The total outlay for the project is estimated at £125m, and the construction will take a good 3 years to finish. The completed tower will stand tall at 208 metres, ousting the 150m tall BT Tower from its tallest building position. The new landmark tower will bring the focus of businesses to Birmingham, predict the developers. Those looking for an office relocation site will find the completely functional and self-sufficient premises a boon and will help generate employment opportunities here as well.

Midlands developer hopes to commence work by the end of 2010 once the approval is obtained. Speaking for the Midlands group, Roger Holbeche expressed hope that the Regus would bring in top-of-the-line facilities to Birmingham, making it a serious contender for the Big City status.