Development agreement secured for Mell Square transformation

Solihull Council and Muse have signed a development agreement to regenerate Mell Square, Solihull’s shopping hub.

Muse plans to create a mixed-use development around Mell Square that includes new homes, shops, leisure facilities and public spaces, as part of the wider Solihull Town Centre Masterplan.

The urban placemaker was chosen as the preferred development partner for the project in October 2023 and secured Cabinet approval for the agreement last month.

A series of public engagement activities took place during spring and summer, including online surveys to gather input from Solihull residents and businesses on the future of Mell Square. Feedback gathered will help inform the planning application to be submitted in the New Year.

Maggie Grogan, managing director of the Midlands at Muse said: “The regeneration of Mell Square is a unique opportunity to respond to the changing demands on Solihull town centre. Our vision could deliver a bold mixed-use neighbourhood with new evening and night-time uses, alongside new homes and public spaces.

“Having a Development Agreement in place enables us to build on the important work we have already done to develop our approach. We are looking forward to undertaking further engagement with the community later this year and showcasing our exciting plan before submitting a planning application.”

Cllr Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Council, said: “This is really great news for Solihull and the future of our town centre! This Development Agreement means that we are entering a crucial phase of the regeneration. With Muse’s expertise as a nationwide developer, I am confident that we can reinvigorate Mell Square to enhance Solihull town centre’s existing retail offer, visitor attractions and diversify the night-time economy.

“I’m really pleased to see a strong focus on new housing as part of Muses’ proposals. It’s so important that we can provide a range of properties for our residents, from starter homes onwards. Bringing more people into our town centre can only be a boost to our local businesses and the wider economy.

“It is important to incorporate the views of residents and businesses across our borough as we progress with the Mell Square redevelopment. I am therefore pleased that there will be more public engagement sessions this November, both in person and online. This will allow the local community to share their feedback on the next phase of this exciting project.”