Image Credit: CBRE

Global Banking School (GBS), a prominent higher education provider, has finalised a significant 15-year lease agreement for nearly 70,000 square feet of prime office space at 1 Brindleyplace, one of Birmingham’s most sought-after business locations.

This strategic move underscores GBS’s commitment to expanding its educational footprint in Birmingham, where it already serves a substantial portion of its over 30,000 students. The new facility is expected to bolster GBS’s presence in the region, offering enhanced resources and state-of-the-art learning environments for its growing student body.

With ten campuses across major UK cities including London, Leeds, and Manchester, GBS has established itself as a leader in higher education. The expansion into 1 Brindleyplace aligns with the institution’s broader mission to provide accessible and high-quality education to students across the country.

James Kennedy, deputy chief executive of GBS, said: “As an organisation we are always looking to grow. 

“At GBS, we are working to deliver on the GEDU goal of changing lives through education. We offer students unparalleled flexibility to complete their studies within their already busy personal and professional lives, enabling them to take that next step in their career.

“This expanded footprint will allow us to even better serve the Birmingham community, a city in which we are proud to have a presence.”

Theo Holmes, senior director and head of office agency at CBRE who advises on the deal, said: “The education sector is particularly active in the office market, with several notable deals in the last 18 months, including QAHE’s 45,000 sq ft letting at Louisa Ryland House, Arden University taking an additional 24,000 sq ft in Crossway House and University College Birmingham’s acquisition of 45,000 sq ft at Baskerville House. 

“The repurposing of office space for education use is a trend that is continuing to gather pace in Birmingham. Space requirements of education providers are very similar to office occupiers. When coupled with access to local amenities and good transport links, it’s easy to see why an increasing number are choosing this route to establish and expand their campuses in the city.

“Brindleyplace provides the perfect campus location, offering good quality accommodation and affordable rents, within a safe, managed environment.”