Several housing projects in Solihull have encountered significant delays and rising costs, impacting planned completion dates and budgets.
During a recent meeting of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Investment Board, members reviewed multiple ‘red rated’ projects, including two key housing schemes under the ‘Accelerated Housing Delivery – Utilising Solihull Assets’ programme, which have experienced setbacks.
The first project, Middlewood House, aims to deliver 23 affordable net zero homes. Initially scheduled for completion in June 2023 with a budget of £240,000, approximately £230,000 has already been expended. However, an additional £450,000 in funding is now required to finalise the project. Ian Martin, WMCA Director of Commercial and Investment, indicated that, although the project has reached RIBA Stage 3 and submitted a planning application, the completion date has been extended to June 2027.
READ MORE: ‘Perfect for everyday wear’ Next T-shirts now just £3 each in a 10-colour set
READ MORE: British Gas Erroneously Transfers £38,000 to Household Account
The second development, Rowood Drive, plans to construct 33 new homes on a former council-owned playing pitch. Originally set for completion by September 2025 with a budget of £495,000, this project’s completion timeline is now proposed to be extended to August 2028. The scheme has also advanced to RIBA Stage 3, with the next step involving the procurement of a development partner.
Overall, the ‘Accelerated Housing Delivery – Utilising Solihull Assets’ initiative was initially due to conclude by December 2022, later extended to March 2023, supported by an approved budget allocation of £2.82 million, of which £2.68 million has been claimed. This completion date has now been pushed back to 2032, with an additional £424,000 requested to ensure the programme’s continuation.
The delays and increased funding requirements reflect the complexities and challenges faced during the development of affordable housing projects in Solihull, highlighting the need for ongoing investment and careful project management to meet local housing needs.