Solihull: Ambitious plans to transform Mell Square shopping centre into ‘urban village’

Residents and businesses are being given the opportunity to have their say on what they want to see at the site which is set to be transformed over the next decade. 

The plans, which include new bars, shops and restaurants, were originally revealed last year.

Earlier this year the Local Democracy Reporting Service reported the scheme had reached an “early design phase” with the aim for the first stage of development to begin in autumn 2025. 

Solihull Council originally paid just under £35 million to take control of Mell Square Ltd in April 2021.

Muse Places Ltd was chosen as the preferred development partner for the scheme and, in a new statement, it said people now have the chance to help shape the future of the project and Mell Square.

The developers say it is aiming to gather views on a range of “guiding principles and priorities around future uses and features”.

People can give their views in the survey at mellsquaresolihull.co.uk or visit Mell Square on August 15 or August 17 where members of the project team will attend and take feedback while answering any questions about the plans. 

Maggie Grogan, Muse Midlands’ managing director, said: “The proposals we are bringing forward for Mell Square will reinvigorate it as a destination for living, visiting and working.

“Involving the community is critical to our approach to ensure that we reflect the future needs of Solihull’s residents and businesses. 

“This short survey only takes two minutes and will really help shape the future of one of Solihull’s prominent town centre areas.”

Solihull Council leader Ian Courts added: “As we work with Muse to reenergise the heart of our town centre and deliver an exciting new vision for Mell Square, it’s important we listen to the views of local residents, visitors and businesses to ensure any plans reflect what people really want and need.

“This exciting scheme is an opportunity to create new space for high quality retailers, restaurateurs, independent businesses and provide a range of new housing right in the heart of the town centre.

“It also has the potential to bring huge benefits for the wider borough in terms of new jobs, investment and training opportunities.

“I would encourage everyone who wants to help make Solihull an even better place to live, work and visit, to get involved and have their say now.”