550-home Birmingham development tipped for approval

A 550-home development in Birmingham is tipped for approval next week, despite heritage concerns and debates over affordability.

Led by family-run Ryland Estates, the plan involves demolishing existing buildings on a 0.6-hectare site bordered by Bristol Street, Bromsgrove Street and Essex Street.

It proposes three new buildings: a 41-storey tower, an 11-storey block, and a 7-storey building.

The development, named Trifecta Residences, would include 550 Build-to-Rent apartments, ranging from one to four bedrooms, along with ground-floor commercial space, shared lounges, co-working areas and a biodiverse garden.

CGI image of how the scheme will look

Having owned the plots for several years, Ryland Estates said it wished to “re-develop and re-invigorate the under-used site” leaving a lasting legacy within Birmingham.

It proposes a mix of 232 one-bedroom, 302 two-bedroom, 14 three-bedroom and two four-bedroom apartments.

The city council’s planning committee delayed the vote in September this year, citing concerns about the affordability and housing mix within the development.

Heritage groups, including the Victorian Society and the Twentieth Century Society, have also opposed the demolition of several low-rise buildings on the site, citing their historical value.

A council conservation officer echoed these concerns, highlighting the harm to Birmingham’s heritage.

Despite these concerns, planning officers have recommended approving the project, arguing that its benefits outweigh the heritage impacts. The final decision will be made by the planning committee on Thursday, November 28.