Solihull Music School has successfully obtained planning permission to move its operations to a Grade II listed building on Knowle High Street. After more than ten years teaching at The Barn Studios, located at Woodhouse Farm in Catherine De Barnes, the school transitioned this summer to a new site known as The Laurels at 1637 High Street, Knowle.
The school, which serves around 280 students and employs eight staff members, applied in May to officially change the building’s usage from offices to an educational facility. In its application to Solihull Council, the school highlighted its operating hours—late afternoons and early evenings on weekdays, as well as weekend mornings to early afternoons—and emphasized its mix of group and one-to-one lessons.
Importantly, Solihull Music School confirmed that no physical alterations, either external or internal, would be made to the building. Instead, the school intends to utilize the existing layout, preserving the architectural integrity of this distinctive historic structure.
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The proposal attracted five objections during public consultation, including concerns from the Knowle Society about potential noise, increased traffic, and insufficient parking. However, council officers found the change of use appropriate, stating it preserves the character and appearance of the area and heritage assets, maintains residential amenity, and poses no risks to public or highway safety.
On October 28, Mark Andrews, Head of Planning, Design and Engagement Service, granted planning permission subject to specific conditions. This approval marks a significant milestone for Solihull Music School as it establishes itself in a more accessible and visible location within the vibrant community of Knowle.