The West Midlands Combined Authority's Investment Board has called for a 'sharper' approach to delivering major projects across the region, warning that delays are locking up capital that could be used elsewhere. The board approved £8 million in funding for Phase 2 of the Kingshurst Village Centre Regeneration in Solihull, but expressed frustration over persistent delays in large-scale schemes.
Kingshurst Regeneration Gets Green Light
Phase 2 of the Kingshurst Village Centre Regeneration will include a new community, health and retail centre, six new houses, and a new vicarage. This follows Phase 1, which delivered 25 affordable homes completed in September 2024. The entire project was originally granted planning permission in April 2022 with a 2026 completion date, but Phase 2 construction is now scheduled to begin in late 2026 and finish in autumn 2028. A third phase will add 47 affordable homes.
Concerns Over Delays
West Midlands Deputy Chair Stephen Simkins highlighted that many big projects tie up significant resources and funding but experience delays. 'We need to make sure when people say they are going to do stuff and get it done, it needs to be nailed on,' he said. 'Far too much capital is invested in these projects and there's loads of delay. We need to have a better relationship with the local authorities and developers so we can actually say when you come to us with a scheme, it will get done by this date.'
Call for Sharper Systems
Simkins stressed the need for sharper systems and contractual arrangements. 'If there is material change then we need to understand that, but we shouldn't be locking up investment in projects where it could be utilised somewhere else,' he added. The board acknowledged that change requests can arise but urged developers and local authorities to improve delivery timelines.
Levelling Up a Deprived Community
A report to the Investment Board described the Kingshurst project as a means to 'level up a highly deprived community' in the East Birmingham-North Solihull Corridor. It will transform the village centre with improved health and community services, addressing market failures that justify public sector intervention. The funding approval is conditional on Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council Cabinet's approval on September 17.
