Parkgate scheme in Shirley finally underway
THE final chapter in a long running development saga will begin in May when work finally begins on the Shirley Parkgate scheme in Shirley, Solihull.
The scheme, to build a retail-led mixed use scheme behind the existing shops on the Stratford Road in Shirley, has been embroiled in planning disputes and was eventually given the go ahead only after a public inquiry. Initial proposals for the scheme were drawn up in the late 1990s.
The £85m mixed-use regeneration scheme – which will be anchored by an Asda supermarket – could well be completed in time for Christmas 2013. It includes other shops, houses, apartments and retirement flats.
It is hoped Parkgate will help to halt the decline seen in Shirley town centre over recent years. Its retail offering – stretched along a busy ‘A’ road – has struggled to compete with the Touchwood scheme in nearby Solihull town centre.
BAM Construction and Fitzgerald Civil Contractors will build the development.
