How Birmingham’s City Hospital site could be transformed into ‘vibrant’ new community

Birmingham: Exciting changes are coming to the old City Hospital site. Residents are getting a sneak peek at plans to turn it into a vibrant community. The proposal includes 750 new homes, with some of the historic buildings being converted into apartments.

The developer, Vistry Group, has teamed up with Homes England to kick off this regeneration project. They’re planning to submit a detailed application later this year. The hospital will move its services to the Midland Metropolitan Hospital nearby when its lease ends in November 2025.

Mike Goulding from Homes England mentioned that over a third of the new homes will be affordable. This means more folks will have a chance to find a cozy, safe place to live in a great location.

Phil McHugh, managing director at Vistry North West Midlands, shared that this project will turn a challenging brownfield site into high-quality homes and commercial spaces. They’re eager to work with Homes England and the Birmingham City Council to create a lively, sustainable community.

Cllr Jayne Francis from the council expressed excitement about the project. She highlighted that it will provide many family homes in a sustainable area and help address the city’s housing needs. Plus, it will enhance public spaces and infrastructure, including a new park.

Vistry plans to offer 35% of the homes as affordable, with the rest available for market sale, affordable housing, and private rent. The project also includes space for commercial and community use.

While there are some regrets about not being able to keep more historic buildings or build a new bridge, the benefits of public spaces and affordable housing are seen as outweighing these concerns. The development aims to create a high-quality, mixed community in a growing area just outside the city center.