RESIDENTS are being called on to have their say on what Solihull town centre should look like.
The Council has released options for phase one concept scheme of its emerging Town Centre Public Realm Strategy focused along the High Street.
The term ‘public realm’ refers to the space in around and between buildings that is publicly accessible including streets, squares, parks and open spaces.
The authority has teamed up with design and engineering consultants Arcadis to create a draft Public Realm Strategy (PRS), which is available to view on the Council’s website or at the Core Library until July 23.
The phase one design concept focuses on Solihull High Street, New Road and the access to Malvern Park via Park Road.
The Council says this design concept includes the installation of a green spine made up of ‘rainwater gardens’ providing the area with greenery all year round.
It looks at how the pedestrianised core of the town centre might be extended with the creation of a new town square opposite the Grade 1 Listed St Alphege Church – the newly proposed Church Square which it says could serve as a focal point and be used to host community and ceremonial events.
Councillor Ken Hawkins, cabinet member for Environment and Infrastructure, said: “Our emerging public realm strategy seeks to help underpin the Council’s strategic aim to support continued investment in our town centre and ensure it remains a vibrant, attractive and welcoming place for everyone to live, work and visit.
“Building on the Solihull Public Realm Masterplan (2016) and Town Centre Conservation Area Appraisal as well as reflecting both Local Plan policies and the recommendations of the Town Centre Masterplan (2020) our draft strategy sets out an overarching vision for Solihull’s public realm.
“From bins to benches and lighting to street signage we want to ensure our approach to high quality public realm respects and enhances Solihull’s distinctiveness and identity.
“I think there are some really exciting ideas in there, but this option is not a fixed or final design.”
The project team will host an event in High Street from 11am to 2pm on July 1, where residents can ask questions about the redevelopment plans and share their views.
For more or to view the plans click here.
