Habiko launches plan for more than 200 homes in Solihull
The affordable homes provider, a partnership between Pension Insurance Corporation, Muse and Homes England, will submit plans for 228 homes as part of the redevelopment of Solihull town centre.
Earlier this month, wider plans put forward 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 two new public squares were approved by the council’s planning committee.
Demolition work on a multi-storey car park and petrol filling station is expected to get underway shortly for phase one of the development, now renamed as Holbeche Place, which will include the first 346 homes and two commercial units, set to be constructed in four residential apartment buildings with ground floor commercial units.
Habiko’s homes will be built in a later phase of the scheme, with public engagement on the proposals set to begin this week.
The development will include a mix of one- and two-bedroom apartments made available at a minimum of 20% below the local market rate, with detailed proposals expected to be submitted before the summer.
Plans for Mell Square were approved last week. Credit: Muse
Lisa Gledhill, Managing Director for National Partnerships at Muse, said the location represented a “significant opportunity” to introduce high‑quality, low‑carbon, low energy affordable homes that support the aspirations of the wider masterplan and respond to local need.
“Bringing Habiko to the West Midlands is an important moment in our long‑term commitment to creating places that genuinely lift the prospects of the people who live in them,” she said.
“Across every location, we’re focused on working with local partners, connecting people to local jobs, and ensuring that the benefits of investment are felt by the communities who call these places home. Solihull has all the ingredients of a thriving, well‑connected town, and we’re proud to help shape its next chapter by introducing high‑quality, affordable homes that put people first.”
The location is Habiko’s third, following the announcement of new homes in Chester and Warrington at the end of 2025, bringing its total number of homes to around 820.
The partnership aims to deliver 3,000 affordable and sustainable homes over the next 12 years, equating to around £1bn in terms of completed value.
James Agar, Head of Real Estate Origination at PIC, added: “Following the announcement of our first two locations at the end of last year, we’re excited to be introducing Habiko to communities in Solihull.
“Habiko is made possible by the strength and expertise of our partners, and we remain committed to championing the value of collaboration through effective public‑private partnerships. With each new location, we’re strengthening our impact and accelerating the delivery of inclusive neighbourhoods that are rooted in the needs of local communities.”
Stuart Dawkins, Assistant Director – Lending and Origination at Homes England, added: “Habiko’s third location marks an important milestone, extending our mission further across England.
“It’s encouraging to see continued progress as we work to create friendlier, healthier, and greener places where communities can thrive. With around 820 homes now in the pipeline, we’re proud of the momentum building and look forward to progressing this journey alongside our partners.”
Muse will be hosting an in-person event at Unit 12, Mill Lane, Solihull, B91 3AX between 10am and 3pm on Wednesday 18 and Saturday 21 February.
Further information will be available from mellsquaresolihull.co.uk along with an opportunity for residents to share their views on the proposals online.
