The government has reiterated its commitment to an extensive civil service relocation scheme, with Birmingham identified as the location for a new hub which could provide up to 4,000 job opportunities. Deputy Prime Minister, Oliver Dowden, confirmed the plans to inaugurate an additional significant civil service centre in the West Midlands.
Following the precedent set by the Arena Central and 23 Stephenson Street sites in central Birmingham, the forthcoming Birmingham 3 Hub is projected to considerably bolster the Civil Service workforce within the city. In discussions with West Midlands Mayor Andy Street, Mr Dowden confirmed that the initiative is progressing, although the precise location remains to be determined.
The hope is for the Birmingham 3 Hub to emerge as a specialist transport office, housing officials from the Department for Transport and National Highways, among other departments. The city is already host to 27 UK government entities.
The hub is anticipated to be operational between 2027 and 2028, with the search for an apt city centre location ongoing.
During their meeting, Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands (left), and Deputy Prime Minister Oliver Dowden delve into the relocation of civil service jobs to the region.
Mr Dowden highlighted that over 32,000 civil servants, including those of senior grades, are based in the West Midlands. He stressed the imperative for a civil service that accurately represents the populace it serves, and makes crucial decisions within their communities.
He added, “In conjunction with the Mayor, we are seeking a suitable location for the new Government Hub in Birmingham. This venture will accommodate thousands of civil servants dedicated to serving the people of the West Midlands, thereby stimulating local businesses.”
In addition to Birmingham, substantial relocations of civil servants to the West Midlands have been facilitated, with more than 200 individuals relocated to both Coventry and Wolverhampton. The latter now hosts the second headquarters for the Department of Levelling Up, Housing, and Communities. Since 2018, a total of 1,900 civil service roles have been transitioned to the West Midlands.
Expressing his appreciation, Mayor Andy Street remarked, “The government has remained steadfast in its commitment to Levelling Up in the West Midlands, with civil service relocation being a crucial aspect of this initiative.”
He further noted, “The confirmation by the Deputy Prime Minister regarding the Birmingham 3 Hub is exceedingly encouraging. Although evolving working patterns have prompted the government to reconsider the office space requirement in the region, the essence remains that this relocation is set to proceed as planned, and we will reap the benefits thereof.”
He extended his gratitude towards Mr Dowden for his ongoing commitment to the West Midlands, pledging to continue their collaborative efforts to channel more civil service roles to the region, whilst ensuring the local populace are equipped with the requisite skills to fill these positions.
