Birmingham has made great strides over the past 20 years, through significant investment in infrastructure and the implementation of major regeneration initiatives. It has restructured its economy, transformed the physical environment and enhanced its national and international standing.
Having established solid foundations for future growth, the city finds itself entering a new phase in its development and regeneration story, with initiatives such as the national enterprise zone designation, its own economic zones, the city centre strategy (Big City Plan), emerging city-wide growth plan (Birmingham Development Plan) and an integrated transport strategy (Birmingham Mobility Action Plan).
By 2016 a number of major infrastructure projects will have been implemented, paving the way for future investment, key development projects and regeneration schemes. The major redevelopment of New Street Station to create a 21st-century transport hub, the extension of the Metro system and ongoing investment at Birmingham Airport are just some of the projects that will play a key role in supporting future growth.
In the longer term, the proposals for HS2 will provide a significant catalyst for the local economy, boosting investment and development activity and radically enhancing national and international connectivity.
A wide range of transformational development projects are now in the pipeline, including office-led redevelopments, the creation of sustainable residential neighbourhoods and delivery of new sites for the city’s growth industries. The headline schemes include the joint venture between the city council and Argent to deliver the 1.8m sq ft office-led mixed-use redevelopment of Paradise Circus, the 8ha wholesale markets opportunity site and the ongoing transformation of Longbridge into a sustainable, employment-led, mixed-use development.
As the city implements its growth plans, it still faces a number of key challenges, such as innovation, skills, connectivity, infrastructure investment and wider governance, which can either enhance or constrain the city’s performance and potential. These issues will need to be addressed in a comprehensive manner through partnership working at the local, regional and national level. The progress is, however, clear and the city’s potential is evident. To unlock it, we need strategic thinking and investment to help address the challenges.
Sir Albert Bore is leader of Birmingham city council
