Brummies urged to share views ahead of major Longbridge development plans

Brummies are being urged to share their views ahead of plans for a major new development in Longbridge being lodged.

Hundreds of homes could be built as part of a proposed mixed-use development on a site which was originally part of the Longbridge Motor Works.

Outline planning was previously granted, subject to conditions, by Birmingham City Council in 2023 for up to 695 homes, the retention and conversion of buildings for employment use and open space.

Now a ‘Reserved Matters’ application is being prepared, which will seek approval for the details associated with appearance, landscaping, layout and scale.

According to housebuilding company Countryside Partnerships, this application will include details for the retention and conversion of several buildings which they say are classed as “non-designated heritage assets” for their contribution to the UK motor car industry.

For The Roundhouse, designs will be submitted indicating how it can be converted to provide office space whilst retaining the exterior qualities of the building.

They continue that the red-brick International HQ could be retained in its entirety, with plans being proposed for its conversion to provide office space and informal workspaces.

On the Car Assembly Building, they add: “Proposals include newly built community and commercial uses which will nestle beneath the imposing steel structure.”

Countryside Partnerships also said the hundreds of new homes could be provided through a variety of terraced, semi-detached and detached homes to “cater for a variety of needs”.

On open space, they say the scheme has been designed to retain peripheral woodland areas. A central public square could also feature a water feature and street trees, while also potentially providing an informal meeting space central to the scheme.

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Turning their attention to sustainability, the developers say: “All homes delivered at the former MG site will be constructed in timber frame, will include an electric vehicle charging point, PV panels and Air Source heat pumps rather than gas fired central heating.

“We acknowledge we have a key part to play in minimising our environmental impact and carbon footprint of our operations to ensure the long-term sustainability of the homes we build.”

Those wishing to take part in this particular online consultation have until June 28 this year to do so. The consultation website can be found on the city council website.