Residents in Birmingham are gathering for a crucial meeting tonight after the Calthorpe Estate revealed plans to sell off 200 plots of land, sparking anger and concern among the community. The Calthorpe Residents Society (CRS) has called the meeting at Edgbaston High School for Girls to discuss the implications of the sale, which includes roads and green spaces used for leisure.
Details of the Land Sale
The Calthorpe Estate, a major landlord in the area, will begin auctioning residential land on July 9. The sale follows a review of their holdings and aims to reinvest proceeds into refurbishing buildings. However, local councillors say the speed and lack of information have left a sour taste among residents. The CRS, representing homeowners for 50 years, was stunned by the decision and has organized the meeting for July 2 at 7 pm.
Residents' Concerns
Colin Morley from the CRS expressed frustration, stating, "I quite simply feel very annoyed that Calthorpe Estate in their literature and marketing talk about ‘attractive open spaces’ and ‘working with communities and stakeholders’ when they have shown over the last month that they don’t care about communities." He criticized the short notice and lack of details, which he believes prevents residents from fairly purchasing the lots. The proposed sales include roads where many live and amenity spaces used for recreation.
Estate's Response
The Calthorpe Estate defended the move, citing recent legislative changes regarding freehold land. They claim to have engaged with the CRS chair, ward councillors, and local MP before advertising. A spokesperson said, "Residents now have an opportunity to purchase land that was previously not available to them." They noted positive interest from multiple residents in buying nearby land.
Meeting Details
The meeting aims to inform residents about immediate sales, actions being taken, and options for those wishing to purchase roads or oppose development of green spaces. It will be held at Edgbaston High School for Girls on Westbourne Road at 7 pm.
