Muse has been named preferred development partner for the regeneration of the 450,000 sq ft Mell Square shopping centre in Solihull.
Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council made the decision following a competitive bidding process.
The developer will lead a multi-disciplinary team including architect Howells, planning consultant Turley, and landscape and urban designer Planit.
Muse will now work with the council and other partners to deliver the transformation of the site, which sits in the heart of Solihull town centre and is a key part of the council’s Town Centre Masterplan.
The regeneration will deliver against the masterplan to enhance Solihull’s existing offer and visitor experience, diversify the night-time economy, deliver new public and leisure spaces, as well as homes as part of a new mixed-use neighbourhood.
Muse will now enter a development agreement with the council, which will be subject to cabinet approval. Once in place, following public consultation and subject to planning, the first phase of development could get under way as soon as autumn 2025.
This initial phase will focus on the redevelopment of the vacant House of Fraser building.
Solihull Council took ownership of Mell Square in April 2021 from IM Properties, with plans for a comprehensive redevelopment. IM Properties paid £44m for the site in 2013.
Maggie Grogan, managing director for Muse Midlands, said: “As we work with the council to develop the proposals we will engage closely with the community. We want to understand what is needed in Solihull and how we can deliver a vibrant town centre for generations to come.”
Solihull Council leader Ian Courts said: “As well as creating new space for high-quality retailers, restaurateurs, independent businesses and providing a range of new housing right in the heart of the town centre, this scheme will also bring benefits for the wider borough in terms of investment, new jobs, and training opportunities. Over time, new communities making their homes in our town centre will bring a boost to local businesses and feed our growing evening economy.”
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