Birmingham’s Smithfield regeneration project is moving forward, with plans for 408 new homes set to be considered by the council. While the development could help tackle the city’s housing shortage, concerns have been raised over design quality and the lack of affordable homes. The council will make its decision next week.
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00:00Birmingham's skyline is set to change. The Smithfield Master Plan is a major redevelopment
00:05project designed to bring new homes, businesses and public spaces to the heart of the city.
00:11The overall plans were approved last year and now a specific section near Manor Square
00:16is up for consideration. The proposal includes a single apartment block with 408 homes, plus
00:23space for shops, leisure and wellness facilities. These will be a mix of one, two and three
00:28bedroom flats with shared indoor and outdoor spaces for residents. Supporters say this
00:34will tackle Birmingham's housing shortage and revitalise the area. The wider project
00:40could also bring new markets, green spaces and entertainment venues, aiming to create
00:46a vibrant community hub. Developers believe this will create a destination for both residents
00:52and visitors. But concerns have been raised. The Birmingham
00:56Civic Society argues the design lacks quality and doesn't cater to families. There's also
01:02criticism over the lack of affordable housing, with some fearing the focus on smaller apartments
01:08could limit long-term housing options. Council planners say the building's appearance is
01:13acceptable and that more family-sized homes will come in lighter phases. While this section
01:19has no affordable housing, the wider development must provide at least 10% across other plots.
01:26The plans will be considered at next week's council meeting. If approved, work on this
01:30phase could start soon, marking another step in Birmingham's transformation. Developers
01:36say the long-term vision remains to create a mixed-use district that balances housing,
01:41business and cultural spices.