Plans revealed for major Sutton Coldfield retirement scheme

Plans for a major retirement scheme have been revealed by Anchor and McCarthy Stone.

The firms have submitted a planning application to Birmingham City Council to redevelop land at the former Royal Works site, off Coleshill Street, Sutton Coldfield.

The proposed retirement community would include 53 apartments for those aged over 60, 85 affordable apartments with flexible support available, indoor communal facilities, on-site car parking and landscaped courtyard and gardens.

Before submitting a planning application, Anchor and McCarthy Stone carried out a public consultation with the local community on its proposals, including a virtual exhibition in December 2021 and January 2022, to which over 2,000 close residents, businesses and stakeholders were invited.

Matt Wills, divisional managing director at McCarthy Stone, said: “We are pleased with the response to our proposals, and to have undertaken a consultation that has resulted in meaningful change to the submitted plans. We strongly feel that a reduction in the height of both buildings by one-storey will mitigate visual impact and we hope this move helps to alleviate any potential concerns of the site’s neighbours.

“McCarthy Stone always seeks to make use of vacant and brownfield sites, and we feel this is a strong location close to the town centre where future residents would be able to support local shops and the high street.

“There is a real need for specialist retirement accommodation in Sutton Coldfield, and this proposal will go some way to addressing that, whilst at the same time releasing existing family homes onto the market and relieving the pressure of local Green Belt release.”

Charles Taylor, director of new business at Anchor, added: “The number of older people across the country, and especially in Sutton Coldfield, is growing rapidly, and we need to ensure that high-quality, affordable accommodation is available to those in later life. Anchor’s partnership with McCarthy Stone will provide more access to specialist housing with flexible care options, giving residents security, confidence and peace of mind that help and support is on hand should they need it.
“Anchor and McCarthy Stone’s partnership is unmatched in the marketplace and will help to address the diverse needs of Sutton Coldfield, and wider-Birmingham’s, ageing population at a time when it is most needed.”