Developer named for major Solihull regeneration scheme

Muse has been named the preferred development partner for the regeneration of the Mell Square shopping centre in Solihull.

Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council made the decision following a competitive bidding process.

The successful bid brought together a multi-disciplinary team including architects Howells, planning consultants Turley and landscape and urban designers Planit.

Muse will now work with the Council and other partners to deliver the transformation of Mell Square. The site has been identified as a key part of the Council’s Town Centre Masterplan.

The regeneration will deliver new public and leisure spaces, as well as new homes – as part of a new mixed-use neighbourhood.

A “significant” number of new jobs, training, and economic opportunities will also be created.

Maggie Grogan, managing director for Muse – Midlands, said: “We are proud to have been selected by the Council to deliver the regeneration of Mell Square and support the ambitious vision for Solihull town centre.”

“Our focus is on working in partnership with local authorities and communities to deliver quality new places. This means regeneration with people at its heart. A place which will celebrate Solihull’s heritage and help define its future.

“As we work with the Council to develop the proposals we will engage closely with the community. We want to understand what is needed in Solihull and how we can deliver a vibrant town centre for generations to come.”

Councillor Ian Courts, leader of Solihull Council and Portfolio Holder for the Economy, said: “Today’s announcement marks a crucial milestone in our plans to transform and reenergise the heart of our town centre.

“Solihull enjoys a well-established reputation as a vibrant, attractive, and welcoming destination for high quality shopping, business, and leisure. With a proven track record of attracting high quality occupiers and investment, Solihull is one of the best-performing town centres in the country.

“However, as retail habits and the way we use our local centres continue to change, we need to ensure what we are offering also evolves. It’s important that we plan and invest now so that Solihull town centre remains an exciting, thriving, and accessible place for people to enjoy.

“As well as creating new space for high quality retailers, restaurateurs, independent businesses and providing a range of new housing right in the heart of the town centre, this scheme will also bring benefits for the wider borough in terms of investment, new jobs, and training opportunities. Over time, new communities making their homes in our town centre will bring a boost to local businesses and feed our growing evening economy.

“I’m thrilled that we are forging ahead with these game-changing plans to create a town centre for future generations to live in, work in and enjoy. It’s fantastic to have Muse on board, they bring with them a wealth of experience delivering complex, mixed-use projects with a strong focus on high quality public realm, sustainability, community, and quality.”

Muse will now enter a Development Agreement with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, which will be subject to Cabinet approval. Once in place, following public consultation and subject to planning, the first phase of development could get underway as soon as Autumn 2025.