Mell Square plans approved to transform Solihull town centre

Plans to transform Mell Square with up to 1,600 homes, retail, and new public spaces have been approved by Solihull Council.

We have been working in partnership with Solihull Council since 2023 to develop the transformational mixed-use masterplan. It is part of a wider commitment to long term investment in Solihull, seeking to diversify and boost the economy whilst responding to evolving lifestyles and consumer habits.

The neighbourhood, which includes new flexible green spaces to support a vibrant multi-purpose central district filled with food, drink, and entertainment venues, will now be taken forward under a new name and vision – ‘Holbeche Place’.

The new identity draws on Solihull’s historical roots, referencing the prominent Holbeche family who helped shape the early fabric of Solihull. They first lived at Touchwood Hall, which stood in Drury Lane (part of the redevelopment site) for over 250 years. Reflecting on its deep local heritage, this vision will forge a new sense of place and community in the heart of Solihull town centre. This marks the start of the Holbeche Place story, with future announcements to come.

Holbeche Place will deliver homes for the whole community, including a mix of build-to-rent, affordable housing and open market sale, helping to attract young professionals, families and downsizers into town centre living. New space for independent retailers, alongside other local amenities, will strengthen Solihull’s offer as a shopping destination and support a more resilient high street.

Holbeche Place will re-energise the Mell Square area in the heart of the town, whilst also introducing two new public spaces – Drury Gardens and Poplar Yard – to create a lively central destination for people to meet, relax and socialise. Each character area will have its own unique personality, stitched together as part of a green, open civic centre for all to enjoy.

Lisa Turley, Development Director at Muse, said:

It will be a vibrant neighbourhood, with space for independent retailers, homes for the whole community, and green public spaces.

“It is also a chance to re-imagine this part of Solihull town centre, in line with the Council’s long-term vision. We have prioritised a new evening economy, restaurants, bars, cultural events, and new spaces to meet and spend time.

“We will continue to work at pace to deliver the opportunity at Holbeche Place. The benefits of redevelopment will be significant, with 170 net new jobs during construction, and many more over the long-term.”

Cllr Karen Grinsell, Leader of Solihull Council, said:

“Holbeche Place is a generational opportunity to curate a place which delivers the homes we need, exciting new shops, bars, and restaurants, and spaces which attract more people to visit Solihull.

“There will also be opportunities to ensure a wide range of benefits for the whole borough – from new jobs, and training opportunities, to attracting additional investment in the years ahead.

“We’re excited to continue working with Muse and look forward to beginning construction on phase one of the development as soon as possible.”

We will continue to work closely with the Council to deliver Holbeche Place, with early demolition works expected to begin imminently.