The National Exhibition Centre (NEC) has secured approval to introduce a seasonal outdoor cinema and children’s play area on its landscaped lawns adjacent to Pendigo Lake.
In December, the NEC Group submitted a planning application to Solihull Council seeking permission to temporarily install a marquee, cinema screen, and children’s play towers for use during the warmer months. The proposed facilities will operate seasonally from March through September each year, with all structures erected and dismantled within this timeframe.
According to the NEC Group’s planning statement, this summer leisure offering will be ancillary to the centre’s existing activities and won’t involve any permanent changes to the site. The temporary setup will enable visitors to enjoy outdoor entertainment daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on weekdays, and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekends and bank holidays.
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The council’s planning officials, including those responsible for flooding and public protection, raised no objections to the plans. Likewise, Bickenhill and Marston Green Parish Council did not submit any observations during the consultation period.
On March 31, Mark Andrews, the council’s head of planning, design, and engagement services, officially granted planning permission with conditions ensuring the annual removal of all structures outside the permitted months and adherence to standard NEC site management procedures.
This new seasonal initiative promises to enhance visitor experiences at the NEC estate without impacting its long-standing operations or the environment.