The new neighbourhood that could transform city centre location

Proposals for a new Birmingham community could provide hundreds of new homes and a “green heart” in a key city location.

Homes England, the government’s housing and regeneration agency, has launched a public consultation on plans for a “residential-led development” at Belmont Passage in Digbeth.

They include proposals for up to 550 homes, flexible commercial space and safe pedestrian routes, designed around a central green heart at the middle of the site.

Those behind the project say it would stand as a ”landmark development” and drive the urban renewal of a “dynamic” part of the city centre if approved. 

“Belmont Passage is located in the heart of Digbeth’s Cultural Quarter, with convenient access to existing and new public transport links,” its website added.

“The city centre, bars and cafes of Eastside and the nearby Knowledge Quarter are all easily accessible on foot, by bus or by tram.”

Homes England also said that meeting the local demand for new housing is essential.

“Belmont Passage will deliver hundreds of new homes of varying types, sizes and tenures, including affordable homes,” it said.

The agency added that the pedestrian routes would put active travel “at the heart” of its plans.

“We are seeking to make Belmont Passage a desirable and pleasant place to live and visit, with safe cycle parking and an improved aspect onto the nearby River Rea, providing opportunities for residents and families of all ages to enjoy pleasant and usable outdoor space,” it said.

Mark Laidlow, head of development at Homes England, stated he wanted to make sure the proposals are influenced by those who live and work in Birmingham.

“Homes England aims to create a vibrant mixed-use community with desirable new homes, as a catalyst for wider regeneration in the Digbeth neighbourhood,” he said.

“Our proposed development at Belmont Passage confirms our ongoing commitment to delivering quality places for people to live and work across Birmingham, meeting the city’s growing housing needs.

“We are seeking the views of the public on our initial proposals for Belmont Passage so we can deliver a landmark development that the Digbeth community will be proud of.”

A public consultation, which can be found here, will run until Thursday, November 7 ahead of a planning application being submitted.