New designs for Birmingham's Centenary Square revealed

Officials from the Royal Institute of British Architects and the Landscape Institute on behalf of Birmingham City Council have selected the final five.

A total of 185 entries were received from across the world and judged during the open design competition to re-shape the well known city location.

The five shortlisted teams will now develop their initial concepts before they go on public display May.

Final judging will take place by the expert panel in June ahead of a winner being declared.

Shortlisted entries come from Atkins, of Birmingham, Barton Willmore, of Reading, Broadway Malyan, of Birmingham, Graeme Massie Architects, from Edinburgh and London based Open Studio Architects with United Visual Artists.

Royal Institute of British Architects adviser, Sasha Bhavan, of Knox Bhavan Architects, said judges were impressed with the number and calibre of entries.

"From 185 entries covering 30 countries, anonymous judging and a broad spectrum of submissions made it almost impossible to shortlist just five; all of whom should be absolutely delighted," she said.

"It was the impressive analysis and empathy with the site and city which probably resulted in an all UK shortlist, two of which are Birmingham practices.

"We are looking forward to being surprised and delighted with the developing next stage of the competition.

"This is a tremendous opportunity for the shortlisted five and Birmingham to show how innovative thoughtful design can transform a major public civic space."

Birmingham City Council's deputy leader, Councillor Ian Ward, who is a member of the judging panel, added: "As anticipated, this competition attracted some truly exceptional entries from across the world, making it all the more difficult to select just five for the shortlist.

"Although judging was done anonymously, I am delighted that two Birmingham practices have made the shortlist, seeing off fierce competition from a wide range of international entries.

"This competition demonstrates that Birmingham is not afraid to embrace innovative and unusual ideas and I now look forward to the next stage of the competition when we will choose a winning design truly fitting of a world class city."

This Birmingham City Council project is managed by the Planning and Regeneration Department as part of the Big City Plan.

Named in 1989 to mark the centenary of Birmingham achieving city status in 1889, Centenary Square is home to a number of key buildings, including the Library of Birmingham, the Old Rep Theatre, the International Convention Centre and Symphony Hall.

Plans for the square include an extension of the Midland Metro and improvements to road layout.