Better communication needed over major regeneration scheme

AUTHORITY NEEDS TO 'CHANGE PERCEPTIONS', SAYS COUNCILLOR

- ALEXANDER BROCK

Ladywood protester Laura Kudrna outside Birmingham Council House

PEOPLE'S perceptions need to change on a huge restoration project in Ladywood, councillors have been told.

The major scheme, set to take more than two decades to complete, has been described as the city’s most significant housing regeneration and redevelopment opportunity.

The city council has said it will deliver high quality new homes as part of a “well-designed neighbourhood” as well as the re-provision or refurbishment of all 1,266 council-owned properties on the estate.

But fears have been raised by residents and campaigners over the possible impact on the community; homes being bulldozed and disruption from years of building work.

At a recent council meeting one Ladywood Labour councillor praised the work that's been done since an agreement was signed between Birmingham City Council and developer St Joseph Homes in April.