Site One (Coleshill Heath Road – Northern Parcel):

The application site (Site 1) is located to the east of Coleshill Heath Road and to the south of Chester Road (A452), within the urban area of Bickenhill, Solihull. The site comprises a large parcel of predominantly open land extending to approximately 9.35 hectares. The land appears largely undeveloped and open in character, comprising grassed areas and informal open space with hedgerows and trees along parts of the boundaries.

The site is positioned between established residential neighbourhoods and strategic transport infrastructure. To the west and south-west, the site is bounded by existing residential development along Coleshill Heath Road and the wider Chelmsley Wood estate, characterised by a mix of terraced, semi-detached and detached housing. To the east, the site is defined by Chester Road (A452), a primary route providing strategic connectivity between Birmingham and the wider region. Also adjoining the eastern boundary is Birmingham Business Park which comprises a mix of commercial and industrial uses. To the south, the site adjoins predominantly open space as well as Heath Farm.

The site’s location adjacent to existing built form ensures it is well-related to the established urban boundaries.

Site 1 lies within Flood Zone 1 indicating a low probability of river or sea flooding (less than 1 in 1,000 annual probability, <0.1%). Additionally, there are no known designated heritage assets in proximity of the site that could constrain the development potential. In terms of accessibility, the site benefits from strong connectivity to the local and strategic highway network. Chester Road (A452) provides direct vehicular links to Birmingham to the south and to the M6 and wider motorway network. Coleshill Heath Road connects into the established residential road network of Chelmsley Wood. The area is well-served by pedestrian footways and cycle routes linking to local schools, local centres, public open space and employment areas including Birmingham Business Park. A range of services and facilities are accessible within walking and cycling distance, including local shops, schools, healthcare facilities, community centres and employment opportunities. Public transport services operate along Chester Road and within Chelmsley Wood, providing regular bus connections to Birmingham City Centre, Solihull Town Centre and nearby railway stations. Marston Green Train station is a 9 minute cycle from the site or 6 minutes by car. Overall, Site 1 represents a sustainable and logical opportunity for residential development, well integrated with the existing urban area and benefiting from established infrastructure and services.

Site Two (Coleshill Heath Road – Southern Parcel):

Site 2 is located east of Coleshill Heath Road and immediately west of the commercial and employment uses associated with Birmingham Business Park. The site comprises an irregularly shaped parcel of land extending to approximately 3.48 ha. The land appears predominantly open, with established vegetation along boundary edges and adjacent to the highway network.

The site is situated within a mixed-use context. To the east and south-east lie large-scale commercial and employment buildings forming part of Birmingham Business Park, including office premises and associated infrastructure. To the south lies open space with Blackfirs Lane further afield. Adjoining the western site boundary is Coleshill Heath Road with open countryside and established vegetation beyond. To the north, the site relates to Site 1 and associated open land and residential areas forming part of the Chelmsley Wood area.

As with Site 1, the site lies within Flood Zone 1, with no significant areas at high risk of flooding. Development proposals will incorporate sustainable drainage systems (SuDS) and appropriate surface water management measures to ensure compliance with national and local policy requirements.

Site 2 benefits from excellent strategic connectivity. It is located in proximity to the A452 (Chester Road), which provides direct access to the M6 motorway and the wider regional road network. The site is also within easy reach of Birmingham Airport, the NEC and Birmingham International Railway Station, enhancing its accessibility and sustainability.

Pedestrian and cycle infrastructure in the surrounding area provides connections to residential neighbourhoods, employment areas and local facilities. The proximity to Birmingham Business Park presents opportunities for sustainable travel to work, with future residents able to access significant employment provision within walking and cycling distance. Public transport services operate along the surrounding highway network, offering connections to Birmingham, Solihull and surrounding centres.

In summary, Site 2 forms a sustainable and well-connected parcel of land within the urban area, capable of accommodating residential development that would complement the surrounding mix of residential and employment uses while benefiting from strong transport links and access to local services.