British Council for Offices and Building Brum: A Midland Future

BCO NextGen and Building Brum are pleased to present an evening of forward‑thinking discussion, bringing together leading voices shaping the future of the Midlands’ commercial built environment. Hosted by Tim Newcombe, Principal Mechanical Engineer at Cundall and BCO Midlands NextGen Chair, this panel will explore what office and commercial development across the region could look like in 2036, from sustainability and innovation to planning, investment, occupier expectations, and skills.

Against a backdrop of rapid technological change, evolving workplace models, and increasing climate ambitions, our expert panel will share their perspectives on how the Midlands can stay competitive, attractive, and resilient over the next decade.

Panel Speakers

• Ralph Minott - Master Planning and Development Director, Calthorpe Estates
• Richard Lawrence – Executive Director of Place, Prosperity and Sustainability, Birmingham City Council
• Kim Gault – Sustainability Thought Leader, Cundall
• Paul Laycock – Deputy Head of Department, Department of Architecture and Built Environment, BCU
• Alison Kilby – Associate Director, Arup and Director, Colmore BID

What to Expect

Attendees will gain a multi‑dimensional view of the region’s future—spanning policy, development, sustainability, skills, and user experience. The discussion will consider:

• How the Midlands commercial market will evolve over the next 10 years
• The role of net‑zero targets and sustainability frameworks in shaping development
• Technology, AI, and workplace trends influencing occupier needs
• How planning, infrastructure, and education can support long‑term regional growth
• The opportunities and challenges facing Birmingham and the wider Midlands economy

The evening will conclude with audience Q&A and networking.

Building Brum is a programme of cross-disciplinary events looking at different aspects of Birmingham’s built environment. The Building Brum series is all about bringing together built environment professionals who are passionate about Birmingham and sharing the projects that are shaping its growth and influencing its future. The Building Brum series is kindly sponsored and by Solus, ScanTech Digital, Arup, Careys, Eh Smith and Sunbelt Rentals.

Due to strict sponsorship conditions and venue capacity, ticket restrictions are in place and apply to manufacturers, suppliers, service providers recruiters and sales representatives.

For any questions about sponsorship, contact [email protected]

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Host or Publisher Building Brum & British Council for Offices