Steven Knight, the acclaimed creator of Peaky Blinders, has issued a direct challenge to sceptics as he helped unveil the ambitious designs for Birmingham City's new stadium, a project he describes as a 'dream' destined to become reality.
A Landmark for Birmingham
The grand unveiling took place at a gala event in Digbeth on Thursday afternoon, where the club presented the unique design for their new 62,000-seater ground, to be named 'The Powerhouse'. The stadium will be the centrepiece of the club's wider Sports Quarter and features a striking design with 12 chimneys dominating the skyline.
Knight, who was part of the core design team alongside architect Eliot Postma and Blues' chairman Tom Wagner, spoke with palpable pride at the subsequent press conference. Addressing those who insist they will only believe the project when they see it built, Knight was unequivocal.
Knight's Message to the Doubters
"Well then don't believe it till you see it," Knight stated. "That's fine and you can spend the time in between questioning and asking the questions, that's fine, but you will see it and you will believe it."
He emphasised the solid foundations of the project, countering any notions that the plans are fanciful. "It's so big and we're backed by people with such confidence and belief," he continued. "I'm still not sure it's real, so I might be dreaming. But no, the thing is that every single aspect of this is not pie in the sky. None of it. It's all costed, it's all measured."
Knight further bolstered his argument by revealing the calibre of the project's backers, noting they are "dealing with people doing projects that are three times bigger than this in other parts of the world." He drew parallels between Birmingham and other rejuvenated industrial cities, suggesting "smart people have spotted an opportunity" in the UK's second city.
More Than Just a Football Ground
The distinctive chimney design is not merely aesthetic; it is central to the stadium's dual purpose as a top-tier football ground and a world-class concert venue. Knight passionately backed the unique architecture, stating its impact on the skyline would instantly identify the city, much like iconic structures in Barcelona or New York.
A key focus has been placed on acoustics, with Knight revealing the architects received an unusual brief containing the word 'intimidate' to ensure a formidable atmosphere for football. However, the acoustic design has a second, equally ambitious goal.
Knight made a bold promise for the city's music scene: "Never again will the biggest music artists in the world come to Britain and not come to Birmingham, because it's going to be the place they want to come." This statement signals the club's intention for The Powerhouse to become a premier destination on the global touring circuit.
