Ambitious once-in-a-generation revamp for Solihull's Mell Square with new homes, shops, bars and restaurants
An ambitious multi-million-pound plan to transform Mell Square shopping centre into an ‘urban village’ has taken a major step forward.
Muse Places Ltd – Solihull Council’s chosen development partner for the regeneration scheme – has now submitted a planning application for the development with hope work could begin next year.
The exciting plans revealed are for 1,600 homes as part of a new mixed-use neighbourhood which includes shops, cafes, bars, restaurants and public spaces.
The scheme is aiming to attract young professionals and families with build-to-rent and affordable homes.
And the aim is to create a new evening and nighttime economy with restaurants, bars and ‘entertainment opportunities’.
Muse says: “The application also includes a range of flexible and green public spaces. These will support a successful blend of food, drink, and community and entertainment venues.
“The submitted proposals have been shaped following significant engagement with the community and partners across the town centre.”
Solihull Council planners will consider the application with a decision potentially being made later this year.
“If approved, construction of the first phase could begin as soon as next year,” Muse adds.
Councillor Ian Courts, Solihull Council’s leader, said: “This is a significant milestone for the regeneration of Mell Square and part of our long-term plan to diversify and strengthen our town centre offer.
“This ambitious redevelopment is a once-in-a-generation opportunity and has the potential to bring huge benefits to the wider borough in terms of new jobs, investment, and training opportunities. We look forward to reviewing their detailed proposals as we enter the next stage of the planning process.”
Lisa Turley, Muse’s development director, added: “We’ll continue to work closely with established businesses, tenants, and residents as the process develops to minimise disruption and shape the next steps.”
As the Local Democracy Reporting Service previously reported early in 2024 came the announcement an “early design phase” had been reached before residents were given the opportunity to give their initial views in an online survey in the summer.
Solihull Council’s cabinet then gave approval to a development agreement – a contract regulating their relationship with Muse – last October before the latest public consultations took place in November and December. Solihull Council originally paid just under £35 million to take control of Mell Square Ltd in April 2021.