Birmingham-based Cordia UK has secured a sustainable finance package from Lloyds to support the redevelopment of its Bradford Works project - a key part of the company’s ambitious Great Hampton Street Masterplan.
The financing recognises Cordia’s commitment to urban regeneration and energy-efficient design across the UK and Birmingham’s built environment.
Bradford Works, located at the corner of Harford Street and Barr Street on the northeastern edge of Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter, will transform a derelict industrial building into a 54-unit shared living scheme aimed at postgraduate students, young professionals, and Gen Z renters.
“Bradford Works embodies our mission to merge the charm and character of Birmingham’s industrial heritage with forward-looking urban living,” said András Kárpáti, CEO of Cordia UK.
“We’re proud to breathe new life into a historic structure while introducing energy-efficient technologies that reduce our and our residents’ environmental footprint while enhancing their quality of life. This development is a testament to how thoughtful design and sustainability could coexist — setting a new standard for urban regeneration across the UK.”
Lloyds supported the project with a £5.25m Clean Growth Financing Initiative (CFGI) finance package, a solution that recognises firms that demonstrate measurable progress in a range of environmental considerations, including carbon reduction, energy efficiency, and responsible material use. The loan underlines Cordia UK’s strategic focus on achieving long-term ESG benchmarks within its real estate portfolio.
The redevelopment plan includes the demolition of a poor quality mansard roof, conversion of a basement and existing floors, and construction of two new black terracotta-clad levels featuring perforated metal panels — which provide a harmonious transition between neighbouring buildings and a subtle architectural nod to the site’s early 20th-century origins as Fattorini & Sons Ltd, a renowned maker of medals and enamelled regalia.
By retaining and reusing the existing structure, the project significantly reduces embodied carbon, contributing to Cordia’s low-impact construction strategy. The design integrates modern materials and energy-efficient systems that ensure a reduced carbon footprint while preserving the building’s historical context.
The development’s energy system will incorporate a central Air Source Heat Pump (ASHP) for hot water generation which will be distributed throughout to all points of use in the building. Ventilation arrangements to all units are provided by localised extract fans and natural trickle supplies, while 37kW Solar PV capacity of system is expected to generate roughly 34,600 kWh of renewable energy annually.
This will reduce the building’s carbon emissions by around 6.1 tonnes per year – resulting in almost 10% of energy savings. All studio units are projected to achieve EPC A ratings for both energy efficiency and environmental impact, which will place Bradford Works among the highest-performing residential buildings in its category.
Bradford Works redefines the shared living model with wellbeing-focused communal amenities. The basement level will feature co-working and wellness studios, designed for flexible use. Communal kitchens and lounges on each residential floor promote interaction, collaboration, and community, while a rooftop terrace provides residents with a green outdoor social hub overlooking the city.
Nigel Johns, relationship director at Lloyds, said: “Breathing new life into underused buildings is key to Birmingham’s continued growth. What stands out about Bradford Works is the combination of meaningful retrofit, strong energy performance and a real sense of place in the Jewellery Quarter.
“Projects like this cut embodied carbon, support the city’s net zero ambitions and create quality homes that keep talent in the region. We’re proud to back a team that sees regeneration as long-term value for communities, rather than just construction.”
