Planning approval secured for Holbeche Place regeneration in Solihull

Solihull Council has granted planning consent for a major regeneration of Mell Square that will see up to 1,600 homes, retail, and new public spaces delivered as part of a broader masterplan now branded Holbeche Place.

Developed in partnership with Muse and Solihull Council since 2023, the scheme is designed to diversify the town centre’s offer, attract residents and visitors, and respond to evolving lifestyle and consumer habits. The new identity draws on the area’s heritage, referencing the historic Holbeche family and the former Touchwood Hall that once stood on part of the site.

Holbeche Place will introduce a mix of housing tenures, including build-to-rent, affordable and open-market sale homes, aimed at attracting young professionals, families and downsizers to town centre living. The neighbourhood will also provide space for independent retailers, amenities and a strengthened food and leisure offer to support Solihull’s high street.

The masterplan places a strong emphasis on public realm and connectivity. Two new civic spaces (Drury Gardens and Poplar Yard) will create destinations for meeting, relaxing and socialising. These areas, together with flexible green space woven through the scheme, are intended to establish a lively central district with a distinct character across each part of the development.

Lisa Turley, development director at Muse, said the team had worked closely with the council and town centre partners to shape an “ambitious and sustainable masterplan” for Holbeche Place. “It will be a vibrant neighbourhood, with space for independent retailers, homes for the whole community, and green public spaces,” she said. Turley noted the plan also prioritises an enhanced evening economy with restaurants, bars and cultural venues.

The regeneration is expected to deliver around 170 net new jobs during construction with further employment opportunities arising as businesses establish in the new district.

Cllr Karen Grinsell, leader of Solihull Council, described the approval as a “landmark moment” for the town. “Holbeche Place is a generational opportunity to curate a place which delivers the homes we need, exciting new shops, bars, and restaurants, and spaces which attract more people to visit Solihull,” she said. Grinsell also highlighted the potential for broader benefits for the borough, including jobs, training and additional investment.

Early demolition works are expected to begin imminently as the partners progress towards delivery, with phased construction to follow.