New Harborne restaurant to launch as part of university’s £15m investment plan
Plans for a new restaurant in Harborne have been revealed as part of University College Birmingham’s £15m investment in new hospitality venues across the city.
Brocks, a new neighbourhood restaurant, will take over the former site of Harborne Kitchen on the village's high street.
An open kitchen and bar will lie at the heart of Brocks, which will have space for 60 guests across a mixture of booths and high-top seating, plus a private dining room, which will be located on the first floor.
Initially open from Wednesday evening for dinner service, the restaurant will serve lunch and dinner from Thursday to Saturday, and open for lunch only on Sunday.
Brocks has been named after Richard Brocklesby, who was in the position as a chef lecturer at University College Birmingham from 1982 until he was in his late 70s.
Known as 'Brock', he taught thousands of students, many of which have gone on to achieve top accolades in the hospitality industry, such as local Michelin-starred chefs Brad Carter and Liam Dillon, plus social media personality and TV chef Poppy O'Toole.
Brocklesby said: “When I was told about the naming of Brocks, I was shocked but incredibly honoured and humbled.
“I'm very much looking forward to visiting and to keep supporting UCB students as they embark on their career.”
Matt Nicholls, head chef at Brocks and University College Birmingham alumnus, said: “As a previous student at the College of Food, I hope I’m able to pass down the knowledge and skills I’ve developed since graduating to the current students.
“I had the pleasure of learning under chef lecturer Richard Brocklesby, so it truly is an honour that I can play a part in his lasting legacy at University College Birmingham.”
David Cumberlidge, commercial director at University College Birmingham, said: “Through the acquisition and investment programme, we’re able to create state-of-the-art learning environments and industry-leading facilities for our students, all furthering our mission to give our students the best possible launch pad for their future careers.”
