Plans have been submitted to redevelop a longstanding trouble spot in Sutton Coldfield town centre into a vibrant restaurant and retail destination.
VV Living has applied to infill the undercroft area at the base of the Knights House tower block and build an extension that will accommodate two commercial units – one intended as a restaurant featuring a mezzanine floor, and the other as a retail outlet.
Knights House, located at the end of the Parade in the heart of Sutton Coldfield, was formerly an office building before being converted into residential apartments. Although planning permission for a restaurant, office space, and mezzanine floor was granted eight years ago, the proposed works were never carried out.
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The ground floor area of Knights House has been surrounded by hoardings for some time. Local residents have reported to Councillor David Pears instances of drug taking and anti-social behaviour in the vicinity.
The site holds significance as a gateway into Sutton Coldfield, prominently visible to motorists travelling from Mill Street and railway passengers walking past Knights House en route to Sutton or Sutton Park.
According to the planning application, the proposal involves “infill of existing undercroft and extension to create two flexible commercial units.”
The new units are designed for retail, office, or restaurant use, with one including a mezzanine. Together, they would provide an additional 335 square metres of internal floorspace.
The plans specify the sale of food and drink primarily for consumption on the premises, signalling restaurant use. The development is expected to create approximately 20 new jobs, addressing a local employment need.
While specific opening hours for the restaurant have not been detailed, a Sound Insulation Assessment by Parker Jones Acoustics noted that the previous approval allowed operation between 8am and 11.30pm, with similar hours anticipated under the new application.
Councillor David Pears (Sutton Trinity, Conservative) welcomed the proposal, acknowledging concerns raised by residents regarding drug taking and anti-social behaviour in the area. He described the current state as “a bit of an eyesore” and expressed hope that the development would revitalise the location.
He commented, “People have told me about drug taking and other issues. This application is an improvement over what is there at the moment. If we can introduce retail or something that serves the community, it will be much better. Any development must also be suitable for residents in Knights House. The hoardings have been in place far too long.”
The planning application, reference number 2026/00444/PA, was registered on 10 August and is currently undergoing a public consultation period.