Solihull-based property developers MADE Real Estate have unveiled their plans for a new landmark tall building in Digbeth, part of the transformational Smithfield Masterplan - Birmingham’s most ambitious regeneration project in decades.
However, the developers have challenged the decision by Birmingham City Council to complete a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) in relation to the site.
The proposed development will comprise approximately 300 apartments, alongside ground-floor commercial spaces, designed to complement the cultural and creative fabric of the Digbeth area.
According to MADE Real Estate, which was founded by Zain Ahmed, Naveed Ahmed and Clemente M. Apollonj-Ghetti, the building aims to act as a gateway between the historic character of Digbeth and the contemporary energy of the city’s plans for Smithfield.
“As both architects and developers, we’re uniquely positioned to shape the project from concept to completion,” said Zain Ahmed, Managing Director of MADE.
“However, at this stage we acknowledge receipt of formal notification from Birmingham City Council regarding its intention to complete a Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) in relation to our site.
"As a developer, this news is both frustrating and disheartening. We've invested years of work, lots of capital and built strong partnerships to bring forward a project that aligns directly with the city's own regeneration vision. The issuing of this CPO sends a damaging message to other developers looking to invest in the area.
"This isn't just about our site. It's about the precedent this sets. If the goal is to regenerate and breathe new life into these areas, then collaboration — not compulsion — should be the way forward."
Based in Birmingham and operating across the UK and the US, MADE specialise in delivering large-scale residential schemes in major cities.
Zain Ahmed added: “In the UK, our roots are firmly planted in Birmingham — a city at the heart of our vision.
“We are currently delivering several landmark projects in Digbeth, a historic district undergoing rapid regeneration. These schemes are not only adding hundreds of homes to the city centre but are also redefining urban living by integrating design-led architecture, community-focused public spaces, and sustainable principles throughout.
“From reimagining disused industrial plots to restoring heritage buildings with modern functionality, our work in Digbeth exemplifies our commitment to preserving character while delivering future-ready neighbourhoods."
Co-founder Naveed Ahmed said: “At MADE, collaboration is central to everything we do. We work closely with landowners, occupiers, operators, key stakeholders, and local communities to bring commercially viable and socially meaningful projects to life.
“Our developments span Birmingham, the Midlands, and other strategic locations across the UK, each one rooted in the belief that great places are built through shared vision, deep engagement, and thoughtful execution.
“Whether it's a city centre regeneration or a mixed-use community, we deliver with purpose — shaping places that people are proud to call home.”
