Approval for ‘game changing’ car park releasing land at Arden Cross

UGC HS2 Interchange Render

A game changing £95m multi storey car park (MSCP) freeing up 30 hectares of developable land will be built alongside the HS2 Interchange Station at Arden Cross after Solihull Council voted to approve planning permission.

Solihull’s Urban Growth Company (UGC), the strategic delivery vehicle set up to maximise the growth opportunities associated with HS2, drew up the plans in conjunction with private and public sector bodies.

The UGC car park plans help to enable the creation of a world-class opportunity for new homes and jobs at Arden Cross, part of the wider UK Central Hub and right next to the new Interchange station, just minutes from the existing Birmingham International station and airport thanks to a new automated people mover.

Located at the £3.2 billion, 140-hectare Arden Cross development adjacent to the M42, NEC and Birmingham Airport, the UGC’s plans consolidate previous proposals for 7,500 surface car parking spaces associated with the Interchange Station. By freeing up valuable developable land for more commercial development and housing, the MSCP unlocks wider plans for the area which will deliver game changing economic and social benefits for the region and the UK.

The 4,000 space MSCP will be over nine floors, with two floors below ground and facilities for 400 electric vehicle charging points, as well as connected-autonomous vehicles, built in. The plans also include a ‘Mobility Hub’ featuring cycle and scooter hire.

A recent review of parking provision has identified a potential reduction in the required number of parking spaces for HS2 from the original forecasts published more than ten years ago. The reduction is partly driven by changes in travel habits with greater use of things like public transport, as regional and national transport policies promote modal shift away from the car.

The decision to reduce the number of car parking spaces to an initial 4,000 in a sustainable new building has been taken in conjunction with the Department for Transport. There will also be an additional 500 surface level parking spaces alongside the MSCP which in the future could be turned into a second, 3,000 space multi storey car park if required.

Councillor Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Council, said:

“Serving the new Interchange station and surrounding Arden Cross development, this key piece of infrastructure will help to unlock the potential of the wider UK Central Hub and capitalise on its position as one of the best-connected locations in Europe.

“Maximising the obvious economic and employment benefits of HS2 coming to Solihull is a priority for the Council, but so is protecting and enhancing the distinctive character of our borough. Focusing on the efficient development of this key site will not only deliver new homes, jobs and investment but also help to relieve the pressure on other areas of our green belt in Solihull.”

Jonathan Bretherton, Managing Director at the UGC, said:

“We warmly welcome the council’s decision to support this key part of the development of the new HS2 Interchange Station at Arden Cross.

“This vote to approve is hugely significant in unlocking new jobs, opportunities, and economic growth for the region – it is about so much more than just a car park. By freeing up more land for employment use on the Arden Cross site, we are facilitating a greater economic impact for the region.

“This is testament to the public and private sectors working together. This wouldn’t be possible without the £50m grant from central government and the £45m loan facility from the West Midlands Combined Authority to make the MSCP happen, with the funds subject to confirmation next summer.”

Solihull Council is striving to be a net zero borough by 2040 and is supporting a series of major proposals for UK Central to create green and sustainable new places to live and work.

Construction of the MSCP will be timed to support the opening of HS2 from 2029-2033.

International infrastructure, engineering and construction firm Vinci was announced as the design and build contractor for the project earlier in the year and have since been working up the detailed design.  Additional planning, architectural and landscaping support is being provided by Cundall, Associated Architects and Fira.

News item taken from: Approval for ‘game changing’ car park releasing land at Arden Cross | Urban Growth Company (ugcsolihull.uk)

Collection of images showing workspace at the WorkHub

Dickens Heath residents now have access to a high-spec flexible-use office space right on their doorstep.

As part of an innovative six-month trial, Solihull Council has teamed up with Third Space Solutions to transform the vacant first floor of Dickens Heath Library into a flexible new workspace. The new space will provide those living in the new-build village with access to a paid-for accessible and professional place to work from, offering bookable desks, collaborative working booths, and even soundproof pods for video conferencing and private calls.

The idea behind the ‘Dickens Heath WorkHub’ is to look at how car journeys might be reduced while responding to changing work patterns and the huge increase in hybrid working we have seen post-pandemic. Inspired by the principles behind the ‘15-minute neighbourhood’* this pilot will bring a facility that people need to access on a daily basis to within a short walk or bike ride from their home.

Data mapping of current traffic patterns shows that Dickens Heath is one of the key sources for short car trips made within the borough. The trial will look at whether providing access to flexible community workspace can help reduce the number of commute-related car journeys, in doing so easing congestion and tackling the associated carbon emissions. With more homes planned along the A34 in the coming years it’s hoped that the findings from this trial can help planners understand what kind of services should be introduced and prioritised.

Open 9am -5pm from Monday to Friday, WorkHub users can expect to access dedicated reliable broadband, and a range of modern and comfortable workspace options with mains and USB charging.

A full day costs £15 but a range of flexible pricing options are available, allowing residents to book the space they need by the hour, day or for longer set periods. Local businesses and employers are also able to make block bookings for their staff based in the village. While the Dickens Heath Work Hub won’t be profit making the trial is seeking to test out the commercial viability of this model to see if it might be rolled out elsewhere.

Dickens Heath residents are being encouraged to find out more and  register for complimentary taster sessions by visiting www.yourworkhub.co.uk

The trial forms part of the wider West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) funded UK Central investment programme, which is delivering a wide range of projects across the borough, from walking and cycling improvement schemes to local centre regeneration.

Cllr Ken Hawkins, Cabinet Member for Economy and Infrastructure, said:

“Hybrid working is increasingly becoming the norm for lots of us. We know that post-pandemic many companies and organisations have reduced their office capacity, leaving lots of people with no permanent set place of work. Responding to this trend we want to test demand for local touchdown office space giving those that are able to do work remotely more options and greater flexibility.

“The Dickens Heath Work Hub will give local residents access to all the equipment and amenities they would expect to find in any other professional office environment but hopefully removes the need to sit in traffic for the rush hour commute.

“By bringing the reasons people travel closer to them so they don’t need to drive as frequently we think there is a real opportunity to change travel behaviour resulting in safer, quieter, and more economically vibrant neighbourhoods, as more money is spent locally.”

Cllr Diane Howell, Cabinet Member for Communities & Leisure, said:

“As well as addressing the dual issues of local congestion and transport emissions, this pathfinder project is also a valuable opportunity for the us to explore additional future uses for buildings within our communities. We will be closely monitoring this pilot over the next 6 months to better understand the demand and financial viability of providing similar flexible workspace elsewhere in Solihull.

“If you live in Dickens Heath and this sounds like something that you could benefit from make sure you visit the new ‘Dickens Heath WorkHub’ website and register for your free taster session.”

 

Notes:

*15-minute neighbourhood

A 15-minute neighbourhood involves a menu of policy actions that provide residents access to most, if not all, of their needs within a short walk or bike ride from their home.

It’s based upon four pillars:

  1. proximity
  2. diversity
  3. density
  4. ubiquity

15-minute policies transform urban spaces into connected and self-sufficient (or ‘complete’) neighbourhoods.

Reducing car use and encouraging active travel are central to delivering the 15-minute vision.

The 15-minute neighbourhood serves as an organising principle for urban development and urban life that makes life more liveable for residents, by improving air quality and making neighbourhoods safer, quieter, more diverse, inclusive and economically vibrant

The Leader of Solihull Council has been joined by the borough’s two MPs and West Midlands Mayor in throwing their full support behind a key funding opportunity for Solihull’s Kingshurst community.

As the Government opens applications to the second round of its £4.8 billion levelling up fund (LUF) it is hoped that £12m of additional funding can be secured to help deliver exciting Council led plans for the wholesale transformation of Kingshurst village centre.

Detailed planning permission for the ambitious Kingshurst scheme was secured in May this year following extensive consultation and ongoing conversations with local residents, businesses and stakeholders, including health sector and community partners. The latest plans for Kingshurst aim to build on the success of previous nearby schemes at Chelmund’s Cross and Smith’s Wood to transform the area by radically redesigning the village centre.

Based on the Kingshurst Masterplan and approved planning application the new village centre will include:

  • 78 sustainable homes all built to LifetimeHomes standards
  • New vicarage for St Barnabas Church
  • 1,600 m2 community, health and wellbeing hub, including GP, pharmacy, dentist, library service and community café
  • 1,500 m2 modern retail space, including an anchor convenience store and opticians
  • High quality public realm and enhanced links to Kingshurst Park and Kingshurst Primary School
  • Car parking to support the new local centre, community spaces and the Church
  • New internal road layout linking Over Green Drive and Colling Walk
  • Sustainable Urban Drainage (SuDS) and landscaping throughout

The redeveloped centre will help ensure that Kingshurst becomes a more sustainable, better integrated community with greater potential to benefit from its proximity to the economic opportunities at the airport, NEC and the rest of the UK Central Hub.

The project has already received significant backing from the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) and was identified as a priority in the West Midlands Mayor’s 2021 Manifesto. This support has been used to develop the current proposals and to help consolidate ownership of the site under Solihull Council. Last year the project team were also successful in securing a further additional £1.81m of Estates Regeneration Funding from the Government’s Brownfield Land Release Fund which has been used to complete acquisitions of land and property and support some early demolition and infrastructure works. With plans at an advance stage and early works underway this latest tranche of funding could be a huge boost in enabling the next stage of delivery to get underway. Officers at Solihull Council, who are driving the project, will continue working with partners and external funders to identify and access additional funding streams as and when required.

Adding their support to the Council’s LUF application both Solihull MPs have written to the Secretary of State to back the scheme and make the strong case for why Kingshurst should benefit from the LUF which is intended to support town centre and high street regeneration, local transport projects, and cultural and heritage assets across the country.

Cllr Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Council and Portfolio Holder for the Economy:

“The redevelopment of Kingshurst is a once in a generation opportunity to create a high quality, community focussed centre at the heart of this important Solihull neighbourhood.

“With planning permission already in place and efforts to appoint a developer partner well underway the project is building real momentum. I’m delighted that our hardworking MPs, who have both championed this scheme from the start, have thrown their full support behind our latest funding application.

“This has been a complex scheme from the start but, with support from our colleagues at the West Midlands Combined Authority, we’ve already done so much of the heavy lifting required to get it off the ground. Securing LUF funding would help us to finally get it over the line. Schemes like this clearly have the potential to change lives and rebalance economic opportunities afforded to our residents in Solihull. This is a fantastic opportunity to really put levelling up into action.”

Saqib Bhatti MP, Meriden Constituency

“As the MP for Meriden, I want to ensure that all of our town and local centres enjoy the highest standard of housing, transport and access to services. Having worked closely on this project with Solihull Council, my constituents and other key stakeholders it’s obvious there is a real enthusiasm from everyone involved to get on with unlocking Kingshurst’s full potential. The plans for a completely reimagined local centre will offer local residents new high quality housing alongside a range of key services and will play a strong role in building further social capital and local pride.

“This ambitious scheme will make a huge contribution to the regeneration of North Solihull as a whole and is a top priority for me and my colleagues at Solihull Council.

“I think we have put together a really compelling bid and shown that we more than meet the criteria for this vital Government funding. We have an exciting and well thought through scheme in Kingshurst just ready for delivery.”

Julian Knight MP, Solihull Constituency

“The enormous impact this funding could have in Kingshurst is clear to see.

“Coalescing around the forthcoming HS2 interchange, the UK Central hub area is a key engine for economic growth in the region. It’s only right that the communities surrounding this strategically important area are able to share in this opportunity. Plans for levelling up here not only benefit those living in and around Kingshurst but will bring wider benefits for the whole of the Solihull borough.

“Last year £1.7bn was awarded to 105 successful projects across the UK as part of the fund. That money is already delivering some fantastic and worthwhile schemes across the country. Now I want to see the same support targeted here in Solihull. That’s why I am backing this bid.”

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands

“I’m so pleased to lend my support to the transformation of the Kingshurst Village Centre site – a scheme which really embodies Levelling Up in action and is hopefully a prime prospect for future funding.

“I commend Solihull Council for their proactive leadership and for rising to this redevelopment challenge in a way that prioritises health and inclusive growth for local residents – keeping a sharp focus on enabling the Kingshurst community to thrive.

“Across the West Midlands, we need to build 215,000 new homes by 2031 and the regeneration of Kingshurst will help us to deliver on this ambitious goal. I look forward to seeing this scheme take shape.”

Residents interested in this scheme can sign up to receive regular ‘StayConnected’ email bulletins.

 

A Council led project to make future public transport even more green and efficient for users by utilising autonomous vehicles has been recognised with a prestigious award from the Association of Directors of Environment, Economy, Planning & Transport (ADEPT).

Working in partnership with Transport for West Midlands, Solihull Council’s autonomous vehicle initiative has enabled a series of ground-breaking passenger trials to take place around the planned HS2 interchange using a fully electric self-driving shuttle. The trials are providing evidence for the commercial viability of replacing carbon-intensive, single-occupancy vehicles with new forms of future-proofed, affordable and low-carbon mass transport systems on our current road network.

As part of their Spring Conference last week, the achievements of its members and partners were celebrated at ADEPT’s annual President’s Awards. Recognising a wide range of collaborative and innovative projects from across the country, Solihull Council picked up the top award in the ‘Delivering Clean Growth’ category which was presented by Baroness Vere, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Transport. Commenting on Solihull’s winning entry the judges said that not only did this project address all the criteria but that it was also ‘applicable to others and provides opportunities for greater learning’

Last year, Solihull Council became the first local authority in the country to purchase its own fully electric autonomous shuttle using money from the Greater Birmingham & Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP). Designed and manufactured by Coventry’s Aurrigo, the futuristic looking Auto-Shuttle can carry up to ten passengers and uses a suite of sensors, including LiDAR, to understand its surroundings and move around safely.

The zero emissions shuttle has been used in a series of successful passenger trials at both the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) and Birmingham Airport, where both residents and visitors to the borough have had the chance to try out this new technology.

The Council will continue to work with other organisations in its programme of self-driving transport development. The aim is to provide commercially viable self-driving vehicles to enable people to move around the borough using low carbon, efficient vehicles.

Councillor Ken Hawkins, Environment & Infrastructure Portfolio, Solihull Council, said:

“Autonomous vehicle technology has the potential revolutionise the way we get around our towns, cities and rural areas. It could also be the future of transporting goods. This project is all about looking at how we can practically and safely start to incorporate autonomous vehicles into our existing road network.

“It’s fantastic to be recognised for the truly pioneering work we are doing in this area. Winning this award, especially in such a strong field up against so many other brilliant projects, is testament to the hard work of our project team and our partners who are helping us to deliver it.

“We are leading the way in Solihull, regionally and across the UK by providing real world evidence of how this technology can be used in different settings and scenarios.”

 

A state-of-the-art self-driving shuttle will take to the roads around Birmingham Airport, transporting passengers, as part of ground-breaking trials getting underway in Solihull.

This is the latest phase in an exciting Council-led project which aims to test out how Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs) might be integrated into the borough’s transport network in the future.

Last year, Solihull Council became the first local authority in the country to purchase its own fully electric autonomous shuttle using a grant from the Greater Birmingham & Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP). Designed and manufactured by Coventry’s Aurrigo, the futuristic looking Auto-Shuttle can carry up to ten passengers and uses a suite of sensors, including LiDAR, to understand its surroundings and move around safely.

The zero emissions self-driving shuttle was initially demoed at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC) last Autumn, where it operated autonomously on Solihull roads for the first time, whilst carrying passengers along a pre-mapped section of Pendigo Way.

In this latest deployment the shuttle will be used to transport passengers around a longer and much more complex route at Birmingham Airport while again interacting with other road users. The trial route will provide Airport staff with a new temporary service linking the Departures entrance and Diamond House to Car Park 5. For the purposes of testing, the shuttle will be limited to a top speed of 20mph. In line with current legislation a safety operator will be on-board at all times, who will have the ability to take control of the shuttle at any point if required. As well as airport staff the passenger trials will also be open to members of the public who want to experience one of the first fully self-driving shuttles in the UK. Visitors to the airport can book their ride by going to: www.solihull.gov.uk/cavtrials

The CAV will be running at Birmingham Airport over the next six weeks.

Solihull, with technical assurance and support from Amey Consulting, is already playing a leading role in the development and deployment of CAV technology. Last month The Leader of the Council, Cllr Ian Courts, welcomed Transport Minister Trudy Harrison MP to the borough, showcasing some of the cutting-edge work being carried out in this sector.

The success of this trial will provide further knowledge and experience of self-driving vehicles in a real-world environment, providing the evidence to support the technology being rolled out in the future across Solihull.

Councillor Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Council, said:

“CAV technology has the potential revolutionise the way we get around our towns, cities and rural areas as well as transport goods. I’m excited to be the first Council in the country to purchase our very own zero-emission, road-legal, shared use Connected Autonomous Vehicle and we are keen to put it to use.

“This project is all about looking at how we can practically and safely start to incorporate autonomous vehicles into our future transport infrastructure.

“Already one of the best connected destinations in the UK and Europe, Birmingham Airport is the perfect place to trial our shuttle, providing the CAV with a busy, but controlled environment in which to gain further real world operating experience. The results of our trials will inform our future mobility services and highway infrastructure design across Solihull and the wider region, including the integration across the UK Central Hub including the HS2 Interchange at Arden Cross.

“Road transport accounts for nearly 40% of our borough’s carbon emissions but shared use automated vehicle technology presents us with a fantastic opportunity to address the dual issues of vehicle emissions and single occupancy journeys. Alongside the obvious environmental benefits, this is an excellent example of how smart technology could be used to cut congestion and improve public transport.

Working with our partners we are leading the way, not just in Solihull, but regionally and across the country, in providing use case evidence on CAV deployments in different setting and scenarios.

Nick Barton, Chief Executive, Birmingham Airport:

 “Autonomous technology promises enormous benefits to airports and the service companies that support them, with the potential to transform the way we work and improve efficiency and safety, for passengers, staff and other airport users.

“We are really excited to be working with Solihull Council on this trial, which will provide us with invaluable insight into how we can start to safely incorporate CAVs into our vehicle fleet. This trial of fully electric vehicles, and testing their capabilities on site, is making sure we are working towards our net zero carbon target by 2033.”

Henriette Breukelaar, Director of Economic Strategy at the Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership:

“It’s fantastic to see this fully electric autonomous vehicle operating at Birmingham Airport. We allocated £250,000 from our Local Growth Fund into this Solihull Council-led trial as we recognise the huge potential for Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs).

“This is one element of our wider GBSLEP vision to deliver clean growth across our region. By reducing CO2 emissions and reducing congestion through shared occupancy, CAVs will have an impact on the way we all travel in the future. I would encourage any staff at the Airport to take part and experience one of the first fully self-driving shuttles in the UK!”

Miles Garner, Sales & Marketing Director at autonomous shuttle manufacturer Aurrigo:

“We are delighted to be working with Solihull Council again to deliver another milestone, with Birmingham Airport becoming the first ever Airport to test our autonomous shuttles on their roads.

“Aviation is a major opportunity for Aurrigo, with a genuine desire to find new technologies that can improve the passenger experience. This could be through our driverless shuttles, our Auto-Sim modelling software or it could be through our Auto-Dolly cargo/luggage dolly that can replace the traditional tugs that are commonplace in airports all over the world.

“We’ve recently completed projects at Changi Airport in Singapore and Gerald R. Ford International in North America, putting the UK on the global map for autonomous technology deployment.”

Andrew Quilter, Head of Transport Advisory, Amey Consulting, said:

“Through investment in Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAV) and associated technology, local authorities have the potential to provide their communities with a clean, safe and accessible alternative to petrol and diesel vehicles. 

“Amey Consulting is proud to have supported Solihull Council on this incredibly ambitious project, by providing technical consultancy on how state-of-the-art self-driving vehicles can be used at Birmingham Airport.

“Self-driving vehicles could ultimately have a huge impact in providing an equitable transport system that will connect communities across Solihull and give everyone the opportunity to access zero emission public transport.”

This project forms part of the wider West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) funded UK Central investment programme, which is delivering a wide range of projects, from walking and cycling improvement schemes through to town centre redevelopments and build on the establishment of the Midlands Future Mobility testbed.

Further information is available at www.solihull.gov.uk/CAVTrials.

Licenced taxi drivers in Solihull were invited along to the Council’s Moat Lane depot this morning to find out more about converting their old diesel cabs into zero emission electric vehicles.

Nearly 40% of all carbon emissions in Solihull are currently attributed to road traffic.

As part of an information raising event organised by Solihull Council and Clipper Automotive, taxi drivers were given the chance to test-drive a fully electric cab while discovering how it’s now possible to upgrade their own older polluting vehicles.

Clipper Automotive is a UK-based company which specialises in electric taxis. They primarily focus on upgrading the iconic TX4 black cab by swapping out the standard diesel engine for an electric motor and battery so that it can run 100% electric and emission-free. Showcasing one of these converted cabs at the event, drivers were given the opportunity to find out more about how the conversion works and what’s involved in making the switch.

The reuse of existing equipment means that these conversions can offer a cost effective alternative to replacing older cabs with a brand new vehicle, which in turn can deliver even further carbon savings.

Solihull Council produced its own Electric Vehicle (EV) Strategy in 2020 which seeks to help address some of the current barriers to EV adoption while supporting the widespread transition to electric vehicles across the borough.

Cllr Andy Mackiewicz, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Climate Change, Planning & Housing:

“We know that transport currently accounts for 39% of the borough’s total carbon emissions. It’s clear that a range of solutions are going to be needed if we are to tackle this problem and meet our net zero carbon aspirations for the borough by 2041.

“Converting petrol or diesel vehicles offers drivers a cost effective way of keeping existing vehicles on the road for longer while reducing their emissions to zero, which feels like a win win.

“Helping to remove barriers and encourage wider take up of EVs is the key objective of our EV strategy. Of course we can’t make this happen by ourselves but there are key actions that we can, and are, taking as a Council that can make a real difference, such as facilitating the roll out of EV charging infrastructure, upgrading our own fleet of vehicles and supporting taxis and private hire vehicle owners to do the same. We are also looking how we can help change people’s perceptions of electric vehicles and what support we can give through local planning and regulations.”

 

Cllr James Butler, Chair of the licensing committee:

 “Taxi and private hire vehicles play a key role in our borough’s transport network. This kind of conversion offers a low-cost, low-risk solution for existing taxi drivers looking to switch to EV, while helping to provide us all with cleaner air and reduced carbon emissions. There is huge potential for the use of converted taxis across the borough and we will work with the trade to adapt our policies accordingly.”

Alex Howard, Co-founder Clipper Automotive:

“It was great to be in Solihull this morning talking to local taxi drivers.

“The cabs are a great example of the circular economy in action. By up-cycling diesel cabs we instantly remove pollution from town centres, and minimise carbon footprint.

“We are giving taxi owners and drivers a real option: zero emissions, and fuel savings of over £100 a week. A taxi that is fit for purpose and fit for the 21st century. We think it’s a win win for everyone.”

Solihull’s EV strategy forms part of the wider West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) funded UK Central investment programme, which is delivering a wide range of projects, including highway, walking and cycling improvement schemes and town centre redevelopments.

The Leader of the Council, Cllr Ian Courts, has welcomed Transport Minister Trudy Harrison MP to Solihull, showcasing some of the cutting-edge work being carried out in the Borough in the development and use of Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs).

As part of Solihull Council’s exciting Low Carbon Future Mobility project, supported by the West Midlands Combined Authority, an innovative project is currently underway to look at how zero-carbon, autonomous vehicles could meet some of the Borough’s transport needs in the future.

Last year, Solihull Council became the first local authority in the country to purchase its own fully electric autonomous shuttle with funds secured from the Greater Birmingham & Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP). In September 2021, Solihull became one of the first places in the UK to see driverless vehicles taking to its roads as part of new ground-breaking passenger trials of the shuttle, which took place at the NEC.

Trudy Harrison MP, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Transport, has responsibility for the decarbonisation of travel and the future of transport, including the Centre for Connected and Autonomous Vehicles as part of her portfolio.

In the morning, the Minister, along with Cllr Ian Courts and Cllr Ken Hawkins (Cabinet member for Environment & Infrastructure), met with bosses at the ZF Hub in Blythe Valley Park, Shirley.

They discussed some of the pioneering work that ZF has been carrying out with CAVs here in Solihull, and what the role of CAV technology might look like in the future. ZF, a global leading automotive company, recently established a new office and technical centre in Solihull, boosting the Borough’s status as a rapidly expanding hub for advanced manufacturing and engineering.

Later that afternoon, the Minister travelled to Birmingham Airport, where she took part in a demonstration on Solihull Council’s own autonomous shuttle. The shuttle, manufactured by Coventry-based manufacturer Aurrigo, can carry up to ten passengers and uses a suite of sensors to understand its surroundings, allowing it to move around safely, interacting with live traffic with little or no operator input.

Following on from the success of the initial Council-led passenger trials at the NEC last autumn, the autonomous shuttle will soon be deployed at Birmingham Airport in the second trial run of its kind. These trials will provide further knowledge and experience of self-driving shuttles in a real-world environment, as a step towards them becoming integrated into the Borough’s transport network.

Councillor Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Council, said:

“It was a great pleasure to welcome Transport Minister Trudy Harrison MP to Solihull and to demonstrate how our Borough is right at the forefront of CAV technology.

“This technology has the potential to change the way we travel and I am confident it will eventually become a key part of our future transport system.

“Already home to an established well-performing research and advanced manufacturing sector, the potential for further growth in our Borough and the West Midlands in this emerging area is massive.

 “I’m excited to get the next phase of our CAV trials at Birmingham Airport underway soon, so that we can continue to learn and build on the success from our previous passenger trials last autumn.”

Trudy Harrison, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at the Department for Transport, added:

“It was a pleasure to be in Solihull this week and see first-hand some of the innovative work that’s being done here to enhance the future of UK transport.

“Self-driving technology has the potential to revolutionise the way we get around our towns, cities and rural areas, while improving road safety by reducing accidents involving human error.

“It’s great to see the Council taking proactive steps in the deployment and testing of this emerging technology which is creating high-skilled jobs across the region while supporting our ambitious transport decarbonisation targets.”

Anita Bhalla, Interim Chair, Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP), said:

“It’s fantastic that the Transport Minister visited Solihull to understand how our region is leading on emerging transport technology. We allocated £250,000 from our Local Growth Fund into this Solihull Council-led trial as we recognise the huge potential for Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs).

“It’s one way to help deliver clean growth to drive our local economy through creating jobs as well as helping achieve our local and national net zero targets. It also demonstrates how we use our unique triple helix structure of working with Local Authorities, business and academics to invest in projects that drive forward inclusive economic growth.”

For more information about Solihull Council’s CAV trials visit www.solihull.gov.uk/cavtrials

Solihull Council is seeking views on its emerging masterplan for Chelmsley Wood town centre.

A four-week public consultation, launched today, will explore what future investment and development in the town centre might look like while seeking to identify priority areas for improvements.

Already a popular and well used local centre this work will aim to provide a blueprint for delivering a phased plan of redevelopment over the coming years. This will help to ensure Chelmsley Wood town centre continues to thrive and serve the needs of the local community as we witness the role of town centres changing locally and nationally.

When the town centre was first built in the late 60s and early 70s it represented some of the latest thinking in urban planning and design. However, as the way people use and enjoy their local centres has changed many of the buildings and much of the layout has been left feeling dated and impractical. The town centre has enjoyed significant investment and development over the years and received a welcome boost in 2008 when a new Asda supermarket opened, however in a survey carried out last year visitors highlighted their desire to see a range of improvements, including a broader variety of shops and facilities, better quality public realm and green spaces as well as restaurants and evening uses.

Plans for redevelopment are focused initially on the Northwest Quarter of the town centre, where the Job Centre and former library site are currently located. This key part of the town centre is currently underutilised and physically cut off from the rest of the centre. Solihull Council has begun working with stakeholders to develop a series of deliverable masterplan options for this area. The Police building will remain unless an alternative location can be found in the town centre.

A set of consultation material has been drawn up which sets out proposals for features that could be included in future development, such as new residential use, improved community facilities and a new food retailer. It also presents ideas for delivering new attractive public realm and better connections with the existing town centre and surrounding neighbourhoods, incorporating key feedback from last year’s Chelmsley Wood town centre visitor survey.

The consultation material and accompanying survey can be found on the Council’s website at: www.solihull.gov.uk/chelmsleywoodtowncentremasterplan. The proposals can also be viewed in-person at the Solihull Recruitment and Training Centre and at Chelmsley Wood Library, where the consultation material will be left on display from next week.

The project team will also be hosting two drop-in sessions, at Chelmsley Wood shopping centre on Thursday 3 March from 10am to 2pm and on Saturday 12 March, 12pm to 3pm, where residents can ask questions about the redevelopment plans and share their views. A series of online public webinars will also be held, details of which can be found on the Council’s website. From the week beginning 28 February, the consultation material will also be available to view in-person at the Solihull Recruitment and Training Centre.

While any physical redevelopment work is still likely to be a couple of years away, residents and visitors to Chelmsley Wood town centre are encouraged to get involved at this early stage. Their views will help shape a draft masterplan that best meets everyone’s aspirations for the town centre whilst remaining realistic and deliverable. The consultation will close on Thursday 24 March.

Councillor Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Council and Portfolio Holder for the Economy, said:

“The regeneration of Chelmsley Wood town centre seems like a daunting task but is one that I have been keen to see since I first became a Councillor. I am delighted that the Council is today taking the very first steps towards a series of phased improvements that will secure the future vibrancy of this well used town centre.

“This is another major scheme, alongside the Kingshurst redevelopment, that could unlock new opportunities for people in the north of the borough.

“The way people use town centres has changed dramatically over the last 50 years, and this has only been accelerated by the impact of COVID-19. It’s important our local centres reflect this. As we chart our way out of the pandemic, I am keen to ensure that Chelmsley Wood town centre continues to thrive.

“We are still in the very early stages, but I would encourage all local residents and visitors to get involved and share their views. Your feedback will be crucial in helping to shape a draft masterplan that meets your needs.

“This will be a difficult scheme to deliver and could take a number of years to complete, but we will work closely with stakeholders and landowners to provide the right solution for residents and secure the future vibrancy of Chelmsley Wood town centre.”

Residents can sign up to the Council’s new ‘Chelmsley Wood Town Centre Masterplan’ Stay Connected bulletin to receive updates on the project.

Solihull has become one of the first places in the UK to see driverless vehicles take to its roads as part of new ground-breaking passenger trials.

An exciting Council led trial is getting underway to test out how Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs) might be integrated into the borough’s transport network in the future.

Securing funds from the Greater Birmingham & Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP), Solihull Council has become the first Local Authority in the country to purchase its very own fully electric autonomous shuttle from Coventry-based Aurrigo, which it will initially be trialling at the NEC over the next four weeks.

The shuttle can carry up to eight passengers and uses a suite of sensors to understand its surroundings, allowing it to move around safely, interacting with live traffic with little or no operator input. For the purposes of the trial, in line with current UK legislation, a safety operator will be on-board at all times, who will have the ability to take control of the shuttle if required.

The trial at the NEC will see the shuttle operate autonomously along a 1-mile pre-mapped section of Pendigo Way between Hall 5 and Resorts World.

Those behind the project are encouraging anyone who wants to take part and experience one of the first fully self-driving shuttles in the UK to book a free ride. You can check availability and book your ride here.

The success of this initial trial will provide knowledge and experience of self-driving vehicles in a real-world environment, meaning that they could be rolled-out elsewhere in Solihull in the future.

This project forms part of the wider West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) funded UK Central investment programme, which is delivering a wide range of projects, from walking and cycling improvement schemes through to town centre redevelopment and builds on the establishment of the Midlands Future Mobility testbed.

The project is inviting organisations from around the Solihull area to make contact if they are interested in learning more about the technology and potentially host a trial themselves at some point over the coming 18 months. Further information is available at www.solihull.gov.uk/CAVTrials.

Councillor Ken Hawkins, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Environment & Infrastructure, said:

“CAV technology has the potential revolutionise the way we get around our towns, cities and rural areas as well as transport goods. This trial is all about looking at how we can practically and safely start to incorporate autonomous vehicles into our future transport infrastructure. Already one of the best connected destinations in the UK and Europe, the NEC is the perfect place to trial our shuttle and look at how it can be used to improve the first and last mile passenger experience.

“Alongside the obvious environmental benefits, this is an excellent example of how smart technology could be used to cut congestion and improve public transport.

“The results of our trials will provide learning on future mobility services and highway infrastructure design across all future development sites within Solihull and the wider region, including integration with the HS2 Interchange at Arden Cross.”

Cllr Andy Mackiewicz, Cabinet Portfolio Holder for Climate Change, Planning & Housing, said:

“We know that 39% of carbon emissions in the borough are currently attributed to transport, with road traffic accounting for nearly all of this. Urgent action will be required in this area if we are going to achieve our net zero carbon aspirations for the borough by 2041. Automated Vehicle technology (CAV) presents us with a fantastic opportunity to address the dual issues of vehicle emissions and single occupancy journeys.

“As regional and world leaders prepare for the upcoming COP26 summit in Glasgow, Solihull is leading the way in demonstrating how emerging technology can be utilised to reduce net carbon emissions and improve air quality for our residents.”

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said:

“The region is at the cutting edge of the development of CAV technology and this real world trial offers an excellent opportunity to understand the role autonomous vehicles can play in our transport system.

“This technology has the potential to change the way we travel and will no doubt become a key part of our future transport system. On top of that, this emerging high-value sector in research and manufacturing is already playing an increasingly important role in the Green Industrial Revolution happening right here in the West Midlands.”

Ewa Truchanowicz, Board Director, Greater Birmingham and Solihull Local Enterprise Partnership (GBSLEP), said:

“It’s fantastic to see the fully electric autonomous vehicle operating at the NEC. We allocated £250,000 from our Local Growth Fund into this Solihull Council-led trial as we recognise the huge potential for Connected Autonomous Vehicles (CAVs). This is one element of our wider GBSLEP vision to deliver clean growth across our region. By reducing CO2 emissions and reducing congestion through shared occupancy, CAVs will have an impact on the way we all travel in the future. I would encourage people to take part and experience one of the first fully self-driving shuttles in the UK!”

An updated masterplan showing the proposed layout, high level design and makeup of the much anticipated Kingshurst Village Centre redevelopment has been unveiled today.

A major milestone for the scheme was cleared last December with approval of an Outline Planning application. Since then work has continued to develop the detailed design for Kingshurst Village Centre through ongoing consultation with key stakeholders, including health sector and community partners. Community responses to earlier consultation on the previous masterplan have also been considered and used to help inform and refine this updated version.

 

The masterplan proposes a new village centre with a community and health centre at the heart of the development, along with new shops and 79 new family homes (the majority being social rented through Solihull Community Housing) all built to Lifetime Homes standards.

The new layout is designed to create a better connection between Kingshurst Park, Kingshurst Primary School and St Barnabas Church. Following feedback at outline application stage, the masterplan provides additional flexible community space and further parking provision.

Local residents are being encouraged to come along to one of the public drop-by events being held by Solihull Council and Solihull Community Housing this week. Project officers will be displaying the masterplan, answering questions and gathering feedback at two sessions taking place outside on The Parade:

  • Tuesday 21st September from 3pm to 6:30pm
  • Thursday 23rd September from 11:30am to 2:30pm

It is also possible view the updated masterplan and share your feedback by visiting solihull.gov.uk/KingshurstRegeneration

Community feedback from these sessions and the accompanying consultation survey will be used to refine the design before a full planning application is submitted at the end of October. This will confirm the detail of the development and, if granted, allow the scheme to progress to the next stage.

Cllr Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Council:

“A huge amount of work has gone into our updated masterplan which aims to respond to the specific community, health and housing needs of the area. Community feedback has been a vital part of developing this scheme from the early draft masterplan right the way through to informing our submission of a full planning application.

“This scheme is a once in a generation opportunity to create a high quality, community focussed centre at the heart of Kingshurst so it’s really important we get it right and deliver a new village centre that works for everyone.”