Divisive Edgbaston apartments approved despite concerns over housing need

Divisive plans for new apartments in Edgbaston have been given the green light despite concerns over the housing need in the city.

The plans also sought permission for the demolition of existing on-site buildings as well as the redevelopment of an existing building.

A council officer’s report said 29 Harrisons Road, the site of the application, was built in 1956 and consisted of a chapel, offices and accommodation for students and staff associated with the University of Birmingham.

It added the facilities no longer met the operational requirements of the Chaplaincy and the site was vacated in summer 2023.

However, the proposals attracted criticism from some members of the city council’s planning committee  today, October 3.

Cllr Colin Green (Sheldon) argued the number of parking spaces could put a “lot of pressure” on the surrounding streets.

“I don’t think there is enough parking,” Cllr David Barrie (Sutton Walmley and Minworth) added. “I think it’s going to be a problem.”

The council officer’s report, published prior to the meeting, acknowledged the “objections and comments” received from residents.

“The proposal would not have any significant effect on the network, including any impact on emergency vehicles, sufficient to refuse planning permission,” it continued.

“The 25 spaces for the 28 apartments and eight spaces for the four townhouses have been assessed as acceptable and in line with policy”.

The report also stated that Edgbaston MP Preet Gill previously shared residents’ concerns that the new proposed properties would not be affordable.

However, today’s meeting heard the Labour MP now supported the planning application, which was lodged by Calthorpe Estates.

Coun Gareth Moore (Erdington) however was against the proposals, saying: “I would have been much more supportive of a development which was primarily or completely townhouses because that provides family housing which is needed.

“Instead we’ve an oversupply of one and two-bedroom apartments which isn’t compliant with our housing need.

“Yes, we need to build more homes but we need to build the homes the people of this city need, not what developers want to put forward.

“This is a lost opportunity.”

On affordability, the council officer’s report said an independently-assessed appraisal concluded the scheme could not support any affordable housing or off-site contributions.

However, after significant negotiation, the applicant was able to offer three affordable housing units (9.4 cent).

The report said: “The Affordable Housing team has identified the preference for the city would be for an increased amount of affordable family sized homes.

“However the proposed offer of one and two-bedroom properties would be in line with the need of the ward of Edgbaston and as such would be acceptable for this development.”

Summing up why the proposed development had ultimately been recommended for approval, subject to a legal agreement, it said there would be “no adverse impact on the amenity of neighbouring occupiers” if it went ahead.

The report said it would also have a “beneficial impact on ecology and landscape locally” if approved.

Ralph Minott, masterplanning and development Director at Calthorpe Estates, said it was committed to “delivering high-quality residential homes that align with the evolving needs of the local community and the city”.

“We are especially grateful for the support shown by Preet Gill, Labour MP for Edgbaston, who has recognised the value of this development for the area,” he continued.

“Her backing, alongside the recommendations of the city planning team, highlighted the positive impact this development will have on the local community.”

He added: “Calthorpe Estates remains committed to working closely with residents, local representatives, and stakeholders as we move forward with this exciting project.

“We look forward to bringing this vision to life and continuing to invest in the future of Edgbaston.”