Plans to demolish the former Harborne Police Station in Birmingham and replace it with new residential homes have been approved, sparking mixed reactions from local councillors. The site, located on Rose Road, will be redeveloped to include townhouses, apartments, and a detached house.
The police station ceased operation in October 2023, and the existing structures are set to be removed as part of the project. A council report highlighted several benefits of the proposal, notably the redevelopment of brownfield land and a predicted reduction in traffic compared to the site’s previous use.
Councillors expressed generally positive views about the overall scheme. Harborne councillor Martin Brooks praised the project for revitalizing a vacant brownfield site. Coun David Barrie described the design as well-suited and the density appropriate for the area. Coun Jamie Scott called the application “tasteful” but voiced disappointment over the minimal number of affordable homes planned—only three out of fifty.
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Coun Lee Marsham was more critical, describing the social and affordable housing contribution as “unacceptable.” He announced plans to write to West Midlands Police to advocate for tighter controls over future developments on public land sales. Typically, the council expects 35% affordable housing on major projects. However, this application was granted a reduction due to ‘vacant building credit’ (VBC), a mechanism that developers can use to lower affordable housing requirements.
Marsham urged caution, warning other developers against abusing such credits to bypass affordable housing obligations. Despite these concerns, he acknowledged the development as a generally positive addition to the area.
The council’s report also noted significant economic and employment benefits tied to the construction phase. Located approximately 60 metres north of the Grade II listed Fire Station and Station Cottages, the new development would be smaller and architecturally superior to the existing large, 1980s police building, which was considered detrimental to the historic setting.
The planning committee approved the proposals on February 19. Developer Spitfire Homes acquired the site in spring 2023.
Separately, the West Midlands Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner reaffirmed the ongoing priority of tackling crime in Harborne. It confirmed that Quinton Police Station would remain operational and undergo refurbishment. The statement emphasized that decisions on police estate management balance officer numbers against building maintenance. It also noted that West Midlands Police currently have fewer officers than in 2010, and proceeds from property sales help sustain staffing levels and financial viability.