The Mayor of the West Midlands has announced a £20 million investment to fund the complete regeneration of Solihull town centre. The financial backing will transform Holbeche Place, formerly known as Mell Square, into a vibrant mixed-use neighbourhood featuring new shops, restaurants, and 1,600 new homes.
Phased Development Over a Decade
The redevelopment will be constructed in phases over the next ten years, aiming to inject fresh life and vibrancy into the heart of Solihull. The first two phases, supported by the Mayor's investment, will deliver 346 build-to-rent homes followed by 228 affordable homes, setting the foundation for the wider plan.
Announcing the investment at the UKREiiF real estate show in Leeds on May 20, the Mayor stated: “High streets were never just places to buy things. They were where communities met, where local businesses grew and where people felt pride in the place they lived. Too many town centres have been hollowed out over recent years and people have felt that decline. I want us to reverse that. That means bringing life and vitality back into the heart of our towns and cities.”
Creating a Vibrant Community
The development, delivered by Muse in partnership with Solihull Council, aims to create a vibrant community and form a new gateway into the town centre from Warwick Road. Paul Johnson, chief executive at Solihull Council, commented: “Holbeche Place is a pivotal investment opportunity that will strengthen Solihull’s position as one of the UK’s most resilient and high‑performing town centres. We welcome this latest investment and the continued support of the West Midlands Combined Authority.
“Our partnership with Muse is unlocking a major development programme that brings new homes, high‑quality commercial space and a significantly enhanced public realm into the heart of the borough. This is a strategic, long‑term commitment to driving economic growth, attracting new occupiers and ensuring Solihull town centre continues to offer a compelling proposition for residents, businesses and investors.”
The Mayor added that the project is about building back communities, creating a town centre people can be proud of, where working people, young families, and older residents can all see a future for themselves.
