Birmingham pushes ahead with Druids Heath homes
Work is under way on 62 affordable homes in Birmingham, part of the early stages of the controversial 3,500 home regeneration of the Druids Heath estate.
Regeneration plans for Druids Heath suffered a set-back earlier this month, after the High Court quashed the city’s council’s decision to approve outline planning for the scheme, saying it had failed to publish a full viability assessment ahead of its original decision, which it made in October last year.
The proposals have proved controversial with residents, who fear being priced out of the estate.
While Birmingham City Council has committed to providing a total of 51% affordable housing on the project, outline plans included provision of around 400 affordable homes, some 800 fewer than currently exist.
The decision on outline plans will be referred back to the city’s planning committee – but the authority is pushing ahead with three small-scale social housing developments in the meantime, which it says will be used to support households who have been displaced by regeneration works.
Cllr Nicky Brennan and Simon Wingate on the site of one of the developments. Credit: BCC
“These three sites are about looking ahead and marking the start of a future Druids Heath deserves,” said Cllr Nicky Brennan, Cabinet Member for Housing and Homelessness.
“They offer an early opportunity to showcase our commitment to delivering much needed, affordable homes that are high-quality and support local people to stay in the area and live healthy, sustainable lives.”
Developer Lovell, who were confirmed as the city’s preferred developer for the wider scheme last year, commenced construction on the first 12 apartments on Brockworth Road, with a planning decision on two further sites expected over the next few months.
A total of 26 houses will be built on the former British Legion Club at Bells Lane, subject to planning permission, with a further 24 homes planned for Sherstone Covert.
Simon Wingate, Regional Partnerships Director at Lovell, added: “At the core of our partnership with Birmingham City Council is a shared commitment to local people – creating quality homes and building strong, connected communities around them.”
“As we bring forward these initial developments, we are keen to work closely with residents to shape wider improvements in the area, helping to build a Druid’s Heath that meets local needs now and in the future.”
