Druids Heath scheme inches forward with cabinet vote
An agreement for the regeneration of thousands of homes on a Birmingham estate will be drawn up – after the city council’s cabinet approved plans to award the scheme to Lovell.
Birmingham City Council’s regeneration of the Druids Heath estate is set to include building around 3,500 new homes, intended to replace older properties on the 1960’s estate, around 6 miles south of the city centre.
Outline planning permission for the scheme was granted in October last year, with the authority promising green spaces, new infrastructure and transport links, as well as “revitalised” commercial and community spaces.
Following a decision at the council’s cabinet this month, the city council and Lovell will now begin work drafting a partnership agreement, setting out the developer’s and council’s obligations to deliver the regeneration.
More than half of the development is earmarked for affordable housing – but the scheme has nevertheless proved controversial with residents, who have threatened a legal challenge over fears of being priced out of their homes, and the destruction of existing community on the estate.
Cllr Brennan, cabinet member for housing and homelessness, said: “As someone who grew up in Druids Heath, I know just how important it is to deliver a sustainable, greener, and more connected community for generations to come. So, I am delighted that Lovell has been awarded the contract, to deliver thousands of high-quality, energy-efficient homes – over half of which will be affordable.
“I know how strongly residents feel about the regeneration, which is why we have worked with the community for over two years, holding discussions with more than 1,000 residents. I’m encouraged by the fact that 68 per cent of residents now support the scheme. Together, we are shaping a brighter future for everyone in Druids Heath.”
An agreement is expected to be signed in spring, with detailed proposals for the scheme set to be brought forward in due course. Planned work on the estate is expected to take up to two decades before it’s fully completed.
Stuart Penn, regional managing director at Lovell, said he was “immensely proud” to see the project moving forward.
“This partnership agreement enables us to look much further than new buildings – it’s about creating genuine opportunity for local people and enhancing quality of life. It’s only by working together, with Birmingham City Council and the community, that we’re able to deliver this ambitious masterplan and create a Druids Heath that people will feel proud to call home for generations to come.
“We’re looking forward to delivering a neighbourhood that works for everyone – not just the few.”
