Birmingham Ring Road homes plans in Balsall Heath approved despite objections

Plans for a 438-home development at Birmingham’s ring road were approved despite objections that the proposals are “unneighbourly” and an example of “poor urban design”.

The homes at the corner of Belgrave Middleway and Haden Way in Balsall Heath were approved by members of Birmingham City Council’s planning committee today (October 14).

The plans from Galliard Homes and Apsley House Capital (The Galliard Apsley Partnership) are for land previously occupied by Joseph Chamberlain Sixth Form College and Birmingham Sports Centre.

The site has been vacant for more than 20 years, with the college now situated on the other side of Haden Way.

What is included in the new homes plans?

The project, designed by Chetwoods Architects, will include 219 one-bedroom apartments, 107 two-bedroom apartments, 38 two-bedroom houses, 62 three-bedroom houses and 12 four-bedroom houses.

An agreement was proposed to be drawn up to secure 44 affordable homes and contributions towards off-site public open space, a junior play area, biodiversity net gains and an administration fee totalling more than £400,000.

Why were there objections?

The scheme had been objected to in five letters received by the council which state “not all houses connect to adjoining existing neighbourhood and layout is considered to be unneighbourly, an example of poor urban design practice”.

Another concern listed in a report to councillors states the proposal “will be of little benefit to local people as it will be out of reach for many local people on low incomes to buy or rent”.

But the plans were approved by committee members at today’s meeting.

What do the developers say?

Following the meeting, Don O’Sullivan, chief executive at Galliard Homes, said: “We are excited by the opportunity to regenerate a currently underutilised and unloved plot of land to create an attractive neighbourhood that will not only transform the site but will also make a positive contribution to the wider Balsall Heath area.

“Having consulted closely with Birmingham City Council and the public, we believe we are delivering a development that will provide the right mix of housing for the area, from first-time buyer apartments to larger family homes.”

Robin Norstrom, director at Apsley House Capital, added: “We’re pleased to be able to add another significant development to our expanding portfolio in Birmingham.

“We currently have around 1,400 homes and more than 100,000 sq ft of commercial space under construction at three sites across Birmingham, demonstrating our long-term commitment and investment in the city.”

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