West Midlands mayor backing new 34-storey Digbeth tower bringing homes and changing Birmingham's skyline

West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has agreed in principle to make a multi-million investment into the scheme for a new 481-home, 34-storey residential tower at the top end of Digbeth High Street.

The derelict land off Clyde Street, which once housed the former Safestore self-storage building, has been acquired by Latimer, which is the development arm of Clarion Housing Group.

Mayor Richard Parker said the scheme, which will provide 141 apartments available for social rent will help meet his vision for ‘homes for everyone’.

He added it was vital to tackle the social housing crisis currently being suffered in the region.

Earlier this year, Government data revealed that, at the end of March 2024 there were 6,520 households in temporary accommodation – a 17 per cent increase from 5,571 in March 2023.

Of those 6,520 households, 5,537 had children, representing a 19 per cent increase from the previous year’s 4,657.

Go beyond the story - sign up for our BirminghamWorld newsletter

This means 12,984 children were living in temporary accommodation in March 2024 – a 17 per cent increase compared with the same period in 2023.

Mr Parker said: “Investing in social and affordable homes is one of the most important decisions we’ve made for the people of the West Midlands.

“I’m proud to have championed this multi-million-pound investment, and I’ll continue tackle the housing crisis head-on, ensuring no family in our region is left without a place to call home.”

The WMCA’s approval in principle will now trigger detailed negotiations with Latimer to agree a final investment deal.

Once finalised, the investment would be the latest to be made by the WMCA as part of its brownfield regeneration programme which transforms derelict and other urban plots for new homes, jobs and commercial spaces, helping to drive economic growth across the region.

As well as hundreds of affordable new homes the scheme, on the 1.3-acre site would also include five commercial units and a pocket park featuring dozens of trees.

All of the properties would be powered by solar panels and heat pumps, helping to reduce energy bills for residents.

“This isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s providing stability for families who need it most and creating communities where everyone can thrive.“Social housing offers people security and dignity, while it also eases the financial burden on councils, allowing them to focus on delivering vital public services.

The residential tower is one of several planned or under construction in Digbeth that are set to transform the city's skyline.