Edgbaston masterplan gears up as homes are demolished
DEMOLITION work is set to start on a dozen houses compulsorily purchased to enable the expansion of facilities at Warwickshire County Cricket Club’s Edgbaston ground.
The derelict homes, in Pershore Road, occupy a two-acre plot which has been sold to the Homes & Communities Agency (HCA) to marry up with existing landholdings. The move will enable the comprehensive Edgbaston scheme to be developed.
The demolition work is planned to be completed in time for the start of the 2013 cricket season in April.
Colin Povey, WCCC’s chief executive, said: “The enabling development around Edgbaston Stadium will benefit the local economy and the first phase is already well underway. Our development partner, MCD, are currently constructing 79 three & four bedroom houses within the Edgbaston Square development behind the RES Wyatt Stand, which began last autumn. All of these houses are expected to be completed during 2013.
“The eyes of the global cricket community will be on Edgbaston this summer when we host the final and four group games in the prestigious ICC Champions Trophy, so we’re delighted to complete the sale of this land in time for the derelict houses to be demolished before the start of the season.”
The HCA has acquired the plot and funded the demolition to allow delivery of a comprehensive new mixed-use quarter around the stadium to be completed. The demolition will allow the site to be ready for development as soon as occupiers are secured.
Future phases of the enabling development are due to be released by the club’s development partner, MCD, in the spring. These will offer opportunities for Grade A office accommodation, retail and leisure space in this prime location in the city.
