Investment leaders have emphasized the need for stricter and more efficient delivery of major projects in the West Midlands to guarantee they meet their deadlines.
The West Midlands Combined Authority’s (WMCA) Investment Board recently approved £8 million in funding towards the capital costs of Phase 2 of the Kingshurst Village Centre Regeneration in Solihull. This second phase includes the construction of a new community, health, and retail centre, six new homes, and a new vicarage.
However, West Midlands Deputy Chair Stephen Simkins highlighted concerns over frequent delays in large projects, despite significant financial commitments. While planning permission for the Kingshurst regeneration was granted in April 2022 with a projected overall completion by 2026, Phase 2 construction is now scheduled to begin in late 2026, with completion expected by autumn 2028. Phase 1, which delivered 25 new affordable homes, finished in September 2024. The upcoming third phase will add 47 affordable homes.
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Councillor Simkins stressed the importance of firm commitments and stronger cooperation between the WMCA, local authorities, and developers. “We need to ensure that when commitments are made, they are firmly upheld. While we recognize that changes can happen, too much capital remains tied up in delayed projects. This restricts the potential for investment elsewhere,” he said.
Simkins further called for improved systems, working practices, and contractual arrangements to enhance project delivery. The goal is to foster accountability and transparency so that deadlines are respected and resources better allocated.
A report to the Investment Board also underlined the significance of the Kingshurst project, noting its role in leveling up a highly deprived community in the East Birmingham-North Solihull corridor. The regeneration aims to deliver well-connected, mixed-use spaces, substantially upgrading health and community services.
The approved funding is subject to several conditions, including securing permission from the Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council Cabinet for Phase 2 progression, expected at their September 17 meeting.