Masterplan revealed for Solihull town centre scheme

A new masterplan for the regeneration of Mell Square in Solihull town centre has been unveiled.

The proposals have been put forward by developer Muse, working in partnership with Solihull Council. Muse was named preferred regeneration partner in October 2023.

Speaking at real estate investment and infrastructure forum (UKREiiF), the emerging masterplan was presented by Maggie Grogan, managing director for Muse – Midlands alongside the leader of Solihull Council, councillor Ian Courts.

Mell Square, in Solihull town centre, has been identified by the Council as a key opportunity area within it’s Town Centre Masterplan.

The Masterplan seeks to reinvigorate the area, whilst creating smaller and bespoke new public spaces, leisure facilities and homes – as part of a mixed-use community.

The scheme is being designed by architect Howells.

The Masterplan will be the subject of further consultation with the community over the coming months.

Maggie Grogan, managing director for Muse – Midlands, said: “We have worked closely and in partnership with Solihull Council to develop an exciting, transformational masterplan proposal for Mell Square to support the evolution of the town centre.

“As an already successful and vibrant place, our challenge is to enhance what works well and re-invigorating the area is critical to our approach, adapting to the changing needs of consumers and the community.

“By delivering more town centre living, smaller and bespoke new public spaces, more places to spend leisure time, an evening and night-time economy, and more jobs and training opportunities we can help bring an exciting new feel to Solihull.”

Courts added: “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, we have 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 really excited with what Muse and Howells have produced so far and am looking forward to consulting on our emerging masterplan soon.”