WMCA signs 5,000-home partnership with developer

Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands, said: “By working with St. Modwen we’ve managed to unlock one of the region’s most iconic brownfield sites – Longbridge’s West Works.

“I am therefore delighted that we’ve signed this MOU to continue to work together on more schemes in the future, as we look to build more homes and create more jobs right across the West Midlands.

“At the heart of any work we do together will be brownfield regeneration, as we focus on breathing new life into former derelict industrial sites and their surrounding areas, protecting our precious green belt land in the process.

“The West Works site is the first example of this, and I am really pleased we’re pressing on with the future vision for the site with the planning application submitted today.”

Robert Flavell, senior director at St. Modwen, said: “St. Modwen is very proud to be able to sign up to this landmark agreement with the WMCA which will help bring much-needed new homes and jobs to areas throughout the West Midlands.

“The regeneration of Longbridge is a fine example of how partnership working can bring huge economic, social and environmental benefits. Our plans for West Longbridge will deliver high-quality, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly new homes, new commercial space which will bring investment and jobs to the town and a range of green spaces for people to enjoy.

“We’re looking forward to working alongside the WMCA as part of this agreement and believe it will act as a catalyst to creating new communities which will be of benefit to those who live in, work in and visit the region.”

Ian Ward, leader of Birmingham City Council, said: “Delivering sustainable new homes for a young and growing population is one of the big challenges in Birmingham and across the region and making the most of brownfield sites like the West Works at Longbridge is key to meeting the growing demand.”

Mike Bird, WMCA portfolio holder for housing and land and leader of Walsall Council, said: “I’m encouraged that this commitment has been made to utilise derelict industrial sites in such a practical way. We need good quality housing in the West Midlands, and we need to reduce pressure on our green spaces. Working with developers who share our wider vision for inclusive growth in the region is an excellent way for us to achieve both.

“The West Works scheme submitted today is just one example of the type of development that will be delivered as part of the partnership deal, which will focus on creating high quality and sustainable communities, that can boost the local economy and support the well-being of residents.”