sport
Birmingham City FC Selects Populous for Sports Quarter Training Center
Birmingham City FC has chosen architect Populous to design a new training center in Bordesley Green next to its planned stadium.
How we reported this

Birmingham City FC has selected architect Populous to design its new Sports Quarter training center in Bordesley Green, adjacent to a planned 62,000-seat stadium. The announcement positions the club at the center of current sports facility developments in the city.
Club Project Details
The selection of Populous marks a concrete step for Birmingham City FC on its training facility. The site sits in Bordesley Green directly beside the proposed stadium. This placement keeps the club's operations in one connected area rather than spreading resources across multiple locations.
Related Local Upgrades
Edgbaston Stadium received approval for a £42 million redevelopment that includes a 3,191-seat stand and a 146-room hotel. Construction is expected to start in September 2026 and finish before the 2027 Ashes Test. New cricket practice nets funded at £130,987 were unveiled at Sparkhill Park and will open for bookings in March 2026. Birmingham City Council is investing £2 million from the UK Government's Shared Prosperity Fund to upgrade facilities across six wellbeing centers and Linden Road Swimming Pool. Over 700 people signed a petition urging Birmingham City Council to halt the proposed transfer of Alexander Stadium management to Birmingham Leisure Trust and Serco until 2030.
Next Steps for Users
Residents can monitor Birmingham City Council updates on the Alexander Stadium petition and check Sparkhill Park booking systems ahead of the March 2026 opening. Edgbaston construction timelines will be confirmed through official stadium channels as September 2026 approaches.