Green Innovation Corridor plans lodged
Partnering with the local authority, the University of Wolverhampton has filed proposals for the 200,000 sq ft first phase of the project, which aims to link critical assets in the city’s orbit.
Glancy Nicholls Architects is the project designer, with plans now available to view on City of Wolverhampton Council’s planning portal, reference 25/01021/OUT.
Also advising are Wardell Armstrong, Groundtech Consulting, and SLR Consulting,
The GIC is intended to connect key assets at the university’s Springfield Campus, University of Wolverhampton Science Park, and the i54 advanced manufacturing business park, which is a beacon Enterprise Zone.
It will introduce new commercial and business opportunities for development, incubation space, grow-on space for SMEs and space for larger use.
The GIC has already secured £27m capital funding from government and has attained West Midlands Investment Zone status, helping unlock transformational capital funding, business support and skills programmes.
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Following public consultation on phase one designs, an outline planning application has been put forward for the redevelopment of four brownfield sites, collectively known as Six Mile Green, located close to University of Wolverhampton Science Park.
It comprises detailed plans for ground remediation, site clearance, service infrastructure and enabling works and outline plans for new buildings providing around 207,000 sq ft of mixed use commercial floorspace.
If the plans are approved, WM Investment Zone funding will be used to carry out preconstruction works by March 2027, making sites ready for design and build construction.
Cllr Chris Burden, City of Wolverhampton Council cabinet member for city development, jobs and skills, said: “It is fitting that this critical planning application has been submitted in the middle of Wolverhampton Business Week, which this year is highlighting the importance of skills, growth and innovation in the city.
“The Green Innovation Corridor will drive the Green Industrial Revolution, building upon Wolverhampton’s sustainable construction, green credentials and circular economy for transformation that will create quality jobs and training opportunities for local people.
“Securing planning approval is an important step in bringing forward Six Mile Green, so we can begin enabling works and ultimately attract developer interest.”
Four plots in and around the science park are the initial focus. Credit: planning documents
Pete Cross, chief operating officer, University of Wolverhampton said: “The submission of the first phase planning application for Six Mile Green marks a significant step forward in realising the vision of the Green Innovation Corridor. This transformative initiative will unlock new opportunities for collaboration, investment, and sustainable growth across the region.
“As a founding partner, the University of Wolverhampton is committed to driving innovation and skills development that support the transition to a net zero economy. The Corridor will strengthen our existing hubs at Science Park and Springfield Campus, and the development of Six Mile Green will further enhance our ability to attract high value industries and create meaningful career pathways for our communities.
“We look forward to continuing our work with the City of Wolverhampton Council and wider stakeholders to bring this ambitious programme to life.”
