Design opportunities at the BBC

Two new BBC venues opening over the next few years could provide a raft of design work for consultancies.

BBC Birmingham is moving its headquarters to The Mailbox, a new development in the city centre, and will be looking for an interior design team this year.

Meanwhile, the BBC has submitted a planning application for a new television broadcasting centre, yards from its west London headquarters.

The proposed development, designed by architect Allies and Morrison, includes outline plans for a new home for the BBC Symphony Orchestra and BBC Singers, to be completed by 2007.

BBC Birmingham intends to transfer its entire Pebble Mill production to the 10ha canal-side site, which houses hotels, shops, restaurants and bars, by 2002.

A BBC spokeswoman says development of the BBC’s offices is at an early stage and it will appoint a design team once the technical fit-out is completed.

“We want a state-of-the-art office space and appreciate good design,” she adds. Head of centre for BBC Birmingham Andy Griffee adds: “It’s crucial we are more visible to our audience. The move means we will be on the high street and accessible to licence fee payers.” BBC Birmingham production supplies BBC TV channels 1 and 2, Radios 2, 3, 4 and 5 Live. The space the BBC will occupy at The Mailbox will accommodate 600 Pebble Mill staff.

The results of the planning application in London are expected within months. However, a spokeswoman says the BBC will be seeking designers in “around two years”.