A regional business park, improved transport links and 1,700 new homes are included in a new regeneration plan which it is claimed will create 5,000 jobs in inner city Birmingham.
The Aston, Newtown and Lozells Area Action Plan, set to be formally adopted by the city council at its meeting on July 3, is aimed at creating the economic environment for development and growth in the area.
Key elements of the plan are:
• A regional investment site near Salford Lake, creating a high quality business park for advanced manufacturing companies, including hotel, and other facilities, providing an estimated 3,000 new jobs
• Improved public transport services for the A34, including better access at Perry Barr rail station.
• The £5 million MyPlace youth centre in Newtown which opened this month
• Major housing regeneration in Newtown and Lozells -– some currently under way
• The growth of Perry Barr/Birchfield with new housing, shops, leisure facilities and employment opportunities
• Planning policy setting clear guidelines for new development
The plan has been developed over the last two years in consultation with residents, businesses and agencies.
It is hoped that this will deliver jobs, growth and improve the quality of life in one of the city’s most deprived areas.
Councillor Tahir Ali, the newly appointed Labour cabinet member for development, jobs and skills, said: “This regeneration project will see the area undergo a huge transformation, with a better choice and quality of housing, good access to local facilities, jobs and a real sense of identity.
“The economic regeneration will be secured through the creation of new jobs, particularly at the Aston regional investment site, capitalising on the area’s strategic location and proximity to the motorway network. We will support existing businesses and industry and improve access to employment and skills training for local residents so that they can benefit from these new opportunities.”
