A leafy Birmingham conservation area, situated in the shadow of a derelict tower block, has been crowned the city's most sought-after neighbourhood after witnessing an unprecedented property boom.
A Property Market Phenomenon
New data reveals that the area encompassing Five Ways South and Calthorpe Park in Edgbaston has experienced a staggering surge in house prices. Figures compiled by Online Marketing Surgery and BLG Development Finance show the average price rocketed from £235,000 in March 2024 to £500,000 by March 2025.
This represents a 112.3% increase over the twelve-month period, a three-figure growth unmatched anywhere else in Birmingham. The next largest rise was in Brandwood North, where prices increased by a significant but far smaller 36.3%.
Life on the 'Most Desired' Streets
At the heart of this property hotspot is Frederick Road, a tree-lined street of eye-catching homes and gated driveways within a conservation area managed by the Calthorpe Estate. Properties here can command prices exceeding £1.5 million.
Residents, who include doctors, bankers, and consultants, cite several reasons for the area's desirability and soaring values. Victoria Linehan, 82, pointed to the beautiful, large trees and the preservation of historic houses. "Birmingham city (council) is pulling everything historic down. Everywhere is becoming student accommodation," she noted.
A 62-year-old retired banker highlighted the area's strict rules, excellent transport links, and spacious gardens. "It's 20 minutes into town. The trams make a big difference," he said. "The trees make a big difference, it feels like you could be anywhere."
Another long-term resident, an 82-year-old man, praised the well-maintained homes and the unique ability to walk from a leafy suburb into a busy city centre within half an hour.
The Blight of Five Ways Tower
Despite the area's appeal, a major point of contention for locals is the dilapidated 27-storey Five Ways Tower. Vacant since 2005, the building is a source of immense frustration. One resident starkly compared its appearance to Gaza, criticising the lack of action.
Birmingham City Council clarified it does not own the tower and has no say in its future. The freehold belongs to Calthorpe Estates, while the leaseholder is The Corbally Group (Edgbaston) Ltd, which acquired it in 2016.
Developer Osborne+Co has proposed demolishing the tower to make way for a modern structure of similar scale and two smaller blocks. A spokesperson for Calthorpe Estates stated they are "working closely with the long leaseholder to bring forward scheduled future redevelopment" and emphasised their long-term stewardship of the estate, which they believe adds financial value for residents.
The dramatic price growth in Five Ways South and Calthorpe Park underscores a powerful trend for well-managed, historic, and conveniently located urban conservation areas, even when they sit alongside significant regeneration challenges.
