Muse kicks off Holbeche Place demolitions
Work to knock down the former Mell Square multi-storey car park and petrol station has begun, clearing the way for the first 346 homes as part of Solihull’s landmark regeneration scheme.
Plans by Muse and Solihull Council to transform the town’s 1960’s-era Mell Square shopping precinct with up to 1,600 homes, retail, and public spaces were given the green light earlier this year.
The opening phase of the £200m development will include the first 346 homes and two commercial units on the scheme, which has been backed by around £20m from the West Midlands Combined Authority.
Lisa Turley, development director at Muse, said the start of demolition works was a “significant first step” for the project.
“This is the moment the transformation of Holbeche Place becomes real,” she said.
“Holbeche Place is about more than new homes. It will bring new opportunities into Solihull, supporting a town centre that is active and vibrant throughout the day and into the evening.
“The support of the West Midlands Combined Authority has also been crucial and underlines the regional significance of Holbeche Place.”
Holbeche Place in Solihull is set for a major mixed-use redevelopment. Credit: Muse
The Holbeche Place site, formerly known as Mell Square, was bought up by Solihull Council from former owner IM Properties in 2021, just over a year after the authority published its masterplan for the area.
Muse were appointed as developers for the project in 2023, and a hybrid planning application was submitted to the council in March last year, before getting the green light in February.
Plans for phase two of the project, a nine-storey apartment block containing 228 apartments built for affordable provider Habiko, were approved by Solihull council in July.
“The start of demolition is a landmark moment for Holbeche Place and for Solihull. Residents will now see the first physical signs of a redevelopment that will support our economic strategy and the town centre’s long-term success,” said Cllr Karen Grinsell, leader of Solihull Council.
“Throughout the demolition works, shops and businesses remain open and we will continue to work with retailers and partners to minimise disruption and ensure visitors continue to experience the very best Solihull has to offer.”
