Our Sustainable Future case study: Mell Square, Solihull

Building on success: supporting the long-term sustainability of Solihull town centre

Solihull is a thriving and successful borough, with a vibrant and attractive town centre.

It is one of the West Midlands’ premier shopping destinations and attracts visitors from across the region.

However, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC) has recognised that if the town is to have a sustainable long- term future, and remain successful, it must evolve.

This means adapting to changing consumer demands and demographic patterns.

Mell Square is an established retail hub, but it is tired. It has been identified by SMBC as an exciting regeneration opportunity right in the heart of Solihull. We are working in partnership to design a bold new masterplan which delivers a compelling and sustainable new offer.

It’s an approach which includes as many as 1,600 new homes, along with attractive and green public spaces, and new opportunities for retail and leisure to curate an evening and night-time economy in Solihull for the first time.

In recent years, Solihull has struggled to retain its young population, and consumers are prioritising experiences and leisure over traditional shops. The town needs to evolve its offer to cater to the next generation, as well as those who live and visit today.

Our plan includes a range of new homes, including Build-to-Rent, multi-generational homes, and affordable homes. It will provide new options for people to live in Solihull town centre for the first time.

Diverse town centre living balanced by new retail, commercial opportunities, and public spaces will help stimulate the sustainable economic and social evolution Solihull requires.

By curating a new evening and nighttime economy – with bars, restaurants, and experiences – Solihull can further diversify its offer and build on its high-quality shopping pedigree.

Flexible public spaces, activated by engaging and dynamic retail, will bolster Solihull’s reputation as a regional destination.

A cultural quarter will enhance the experience of the town for residents and visitors. It will enable new and established communities to come together in unique and dynamic ways.

A multi-purpose civic heart will bring a successful blend of food, drink, community and entertainment venues. Smaller spaces and courtyards will create new meeting places, whilst a cultural quarter will support exciting independent retailers.

The green and vibrant spaces will bring nature right into the heart of the town, connecting people to the natural environment.

This is part of a broader sustainable approach which aligns with SMBC’s ambitious climate targets, including reaching Net Zero by 2041.

We will focus on the re-use and retention of materials, as well as the ongoing performance of buildings. This will help us implement lower embodied and whole life carbon throughout the delivery of the masterplan.

There will also be opportunities for renewable energy generation, ambient heat loops, and energy storage.

It would be easy to continue to invest in what has always made Solihull successful. Working in partnership with SMBC we are pursuing a bold strategy to ensure Solihull has a sustainable future.

With more opportunities to live in the town centre, more to do in the evenings, and a more attractive environment to meet friends and family, Solihull will continue to thrive.

This is a future built around long-term success, not just quick wins.