Birmingham - an architecturally interesting place to visit

Birmingham Metro News, September 1999 - summary of article

BIRMINGHAM is being talked about all over Europe as one of the best places to visit, according to a leading city architect.

John Kirwan, chairman of West Midlands Royal Institute of British Architects, said the impressive rebuilding of the city centre had wowed guests from across the continent.

"A bonanza of architectural excitement is in store as new designs come to completion at Millennium Point, the Bull Ring and the Mailbox," he said. "The Arena Central development near Queensway is also likely to see the tallest tower in Europe being built right here in Birmingham."

Mr Kirwan attributed the success to the adventurotus lead set by the National Exhibition Centre Group who built the International Convention Centre. "The sparkling glamour of the mall in the ICC has attracted people to Brindleyplace and helped Broad Street to become reborn," said Mr Kirwan.

And he praised the work by the City Council in Victoria Square and Centenary Square. "Good urban design has enhanced Birmingham's tourism appeal making the city a pleasant place to visit," he said.