Residents in Solihull are being invited to share their opinions on a proposal to construct more than 170 new affordable homes in Chelmsley Wood. The site of the former Simon Digby school has been slated for development for some time, having been identified for housing in Solihull Council's 2013 'local plan'.
Vistry Group was selected as the council's partner for this significant project in October. A detailed planning application for 177 houses to be built west of Henbury Drive has now been lodged, complete with fresh artist's impressions.
A design and access statement from Ophir Architecture Ltd on behalf of Vistry Group says the scheme also includes enhancements to the landscape of the Cole Valley, connectivity and play space and enabling infrastructure including a new access road and junction off Chester Road.
It says: "The majority of the site was formerly part of the Simon Digby school, which closed several decades ago, and is currently rough grassland."
The statement says the scheme would provide affordable homes tailored for "local people in and around Chelmsley Wood including 80 family sized three and four bedroom homes," alongside an "equipped play area near to the development entrance"
Back in 2021, councillors were presented with an aerial concept masterplan outlining potential features for the site. The project later received a significant boost when the West Midlands Combined Authority pitched in with a £2.97 million contribution, reports .
When Vistry was named the appointed developer, Councillor Ian Courts, the leader of Solihull Council, said: "These 177 homes won't just be a collection of new houses but a thriving, well integrated new community at the heart of Chelmsley Wood."
And West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker added: "We have to start building more homes that local people can genuinely afford. Schemes like this one that use low carbon, factory-built homes are revolutionising the housing landscape."
A public consultation is currently open, inviting feedback until the deadline on February 14. Those interested in reviewing the plans or submitting comments can do so by searching for application PL/2024/02981/PPFL .
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