Masterplan for new village centre approved
From Cllr Ken Meeson, Leader of Solihull Council on 02 February 2012
A major milestone in the regeneration of North Solihull has been reached, with Solihull Council agreeing the masterplan for a brand new village centre.
At a meeting of Solihull Council’s Cabinet held last week, councillors agreed the masterplan for the Craig Croft village centre, which will include the replacement of existing retail units, a new convenience store, Council office space, a dentist, pharmacy and health centre, and an enterprise centre.
Central to the development will be a brand new two form entry primary school with a nursery. Bishop Wilson Church of England Primary school will also house the relocated St Andrew’s church, an adult learning centre, community space, external areas, including a multi-use games area and sports pitch, and health facilities.
The Village Centre development is being part funded by Solihull Council - £4.3m through prudential borrowing, and an EDRF grant of £4.3m. Councillors have also agreed to provide further funding through prudential borrowing to fund other elements of the scheme, including highway improvements and a new Council office facility.
Work is also ongoing to secure funding for improvements to Chelmsley Wood Baptist Church.
The scheme is subject to gaining planning permission, and an application will go before the Council’s planning committee in April 2012. Planning permission has already been given for Bishop Wilson Church of England Primary School.
If planning permission for the Village Centre is approved, work on the Village Centre will begin in Spring 2013, with completion in 2014 Work on the school begins in April 2012, with completion in 2013.
Leader of Solihull Council, Councillor Ken Meeson, said: “This Council is committed to the regeneration of North Solihull – it is one of our top priorities - and agreeing the masterplan for Craig Croft Village centre is a huge milestone. This is a flagship development, with a school at the very heart, providing not just educational opportunities but also other valuable facilities that will bring the community together under one roof.”
The masterplan will be available for local people to comment on and make any further suggestions at:
Chelmsley Wood Baptist Church Centre, Monday 27 February 3pm-7pm
Windy Arbor School (Excellence Cluster) Tuesday 28 February 2pm-4pm
Old Butchers Shop, Craig Croft shops Wednesday 29 February 10am-1pm
The Onward Club, 107 Helmswood Drive Thursday 1 March 10am-midday
Plans are also available on www.northsolihull.co.uk/events
Media enquiries only - 0121 704 6164
Email: alynch@solihullgov.uk