Plans for a major new neighbourhood in the West Midlands, featuring up to 1,600 homes alongside shops, cafés, bars and restaurants, are set to go before planners this week.
Nationwide placemaker Muse, a partner of Downtown in Business, has submitted hybrid proposals for the regeneration of Mell Square in Solihull town centre. The plans will be considered by Solihull Council’s Planning Committee on Friday 6 February, following a recommendation for approval by planning officers.
The proposed development would deliver a mix of build-to-rent and affordable homes aimed at attracting young professionals and families. A strong focus on leisure, food and drink, and entertainment is intended to stimulate a vibrant evening and nighttime economy in the town centre.
Alongside new homes and commercial space, the scheme includes a range of flexible, green public spaces designed to support community use and a diverse mix of food, drink and cultural activity.
In a design and access statement, Muse described the site as presenting “a hugely exciting opportunity to introduce a new, transformational residential offer at a scale that will positively impact the town centre and support local retail and amenity uses”.
The statement adds that the development would help repair the urban fabric of the site and establish “a new, bold and proud neighbourhood” for Solihull.
A report to the planning committee concludes that the scheme would deliver “considerable public benefits”, while acknowledging concerns around scale and open space provision. Despite these challenges, officers say the proposal meets the presumption in favour of sustainable development and recommend approval, subject to conditions.
