The redevelopment of Birmingham’s Centenary Square reached a leafy milestone as work began to plant the first of the site’s trees.

More than 50 trees will be planted over the next few months, including 17 Silver Birch, 12 Ginkgo, 12 Cherry and 12 Acer Rubrum, which will be complemented with some low-level planting.

The first tranche of trees have been planted close to Centenary Way, near the Hall of Memory and Baskerville House, with the remainder being planted in phases.

Councillor Sharon Thompson, Cabinet Member for Homes and Neighbourhoods at Birmingham City Council, said: “The transformation of Centenary Square into a world-class public space for Birmingham is progressing well, and it was a privilege to be involved in putting one of the first trees into place.”

Chris Hall is Interim Deputy Chief Executive at Acivico, the delivery team acting as project manager on behalf of Birmingham City Council, said: “Centenary Square has always been one of the most well-known parts of Birmingham city centre, which is why we are so excited about helping to create what will become an iconic space for the public to enjoy.”

The redevelopment of Centenary Square is being delivered for Birmingham City Council by Bouygues UK. Once completed, Centenary Square will be a stunning public space in the heart of the city, featuring a 5cm-deep pool with water jets, which can be drained for events to take place. The entire square will be illuminated by 43 lighting columns. Work on Centenary Square is due to be completed this summer.