One of the schemes included for discussion is work aimed at supporting the ambitious Chelmsley Wood Town Centre Masterplan.

A project to support the major transformation of Chelmsley Wood town centre has been hit with further delays.

Members of the West Midlands Combined Authority’s (WMCA) Investment Board are due to meet later this month to discuss ‘red rated’ projects which have been hit with issues stalling their completion.

And one of the schemes included for discussion is work aimed at supporting the ambitious Chelmsley Wood Town Centre Masterplan.

WMCA allocated £3.434 million towards developing the outline business case (OBC) for the plan as well as other work including land acquisition.

This was supposed to be originally completed in 2022 but got extended to December 2025.

Last year, Solihull Council said a change in ownership of the shopping centre had meant that, despite agreements being reached with the previous owners, officials had to effectively start again.

A report to the Investment Board said a ‘change request’ had been received in May this year requesting a further 36 month extension.

This is due to problems related to acquiring third-party land with the extra time allowing for more work to be carried out.

The report said: “The project supports delivery of the Chelmsley Wood Town Centre Masterplan through land acquisition, preparation of an OBC and future mixed-use development opportunities.

“The approved completion date was December 2022, subsequently extended to December 2025. The approved allocation is £3.434 million, of which £2.88 million has been claimed.

“Progress has been delayed primarily due to land assembly challenges, including the need to acquire third-party land and secure access rights.

“Extensive negotiations and master-planning work have been undertaken; however, further work is required to resolve land ownership matters and reach a position where the OBC can be submitted.

“Work is continuing to firm up land assembly arrangements and occupation of the site.

“The project scope remains unchanged and no additional funding is requested as part of the Change Request.

“While the extension reflects the uncertainty associated with land ownership challenges, there remains an intention to submit the OBC sooner if possible.

“A revised Change Request was submitted in May 2026 seeking a 36-month extension to allow:

• further negotiations with landowners and stakeholders;

• resolution of access and land assembly matters; and

• completion of the work required to support submission of the OBC.

“The Change Request is currently being appraised, and Investment Board approval is recommended due to the proposed extension to programme timescales.”

Solihull Council wants to reinvigorate the rundown Chelmsley Wood centre with more leisure activities including cafes, bars, restaurants, gyms and play areas through the revamp which will be carried out in phases.