Huge regeneration scheme enters 'important phase'

A "significant" Birmingham scheme to transform part of the city centre has taken an "important step forward", according to stakeholders.

The enormous Smithfield project is set to redevelop the former wholesale market site into a landmark destination.

The plans, which were given the green light by council planners last year, include proposals for homes, retail space, civic squares, a market complex, leisure facilities, a park and more.

Earlier this week, the city council confirmed archaeological works had begun at the site, marking an "important new phase" for the £1.9bn plan.

It says an investigation, led by Cotswold Archaeology on behalf of the council and development partner Lendlease, will provide an insight into Birmingham's medieval heritage.

The area being explored is just north of the city's former moated manor, once home to the Lords of Birmingham.

"Any findings will be carefully documented and preserved in line with national guidance," the council said.

The investigation is due to be carried out until mid-December, before redevelopment begins early next year, it added.

Selina Mason, director of master planning for Birmingham Smithfield Lendlease, said momentum was "really building" at the project and the excavation marked " another important step forward".

"The medieval manor and market is at the heart of Birmingham's most historic area, it helped shape the city we know today and honouring that heritage is central to Birmingham's regeneration."

Sharon Thompson, deputy leader at Birmingham City Council, described Smithfield as "one of the most significant regeneration projects" in the city's history.

"We are committed to ensuring that its future is built on a deep respect for its past," she said.

Financial challenges have seen a number of proposals squeezed, an outline business case revealed earlier this year.

For example, the Art Shed cultural building and Round House music venue is now set to be incorporated into a single building rather than two separate structures.

The council previously said it needed to reduce the funding requirement, as requested by government-appointed commissioners sent in to oversee the its recovery after it declared itself effectively bankrupt in 2023.

The authority said, overall, it still considered Lendlease's proposal "the most economically advantageous bid."

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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