Residents' concern at £2.2bn housing deal plan

DEVELOPERS URGED TO LISTEN TO THE PEOPLE

- JANE HAYNES

LADYWOOD residents have reacted with 'profound concern' to news a deal has been done between Birmingham City Council and developers St Joseph's, part of Berkeley Homes, to transform their estate in a £2.2 billion scheme.

A development agreement was signed last week, almost two years after the 'transformative' plan was first announced.

The initial announcement in 2023 warned of mass demolition and compulsory purchase orders, triggering widespread anxiety and confusion.

There were emotional scenes at packed public meetings held when the scheme was first unveiled.

Now residents hope the developers will 'listen' before pressing on with the project.

Ladywood Unite, a grassroots organisation formed in the aftermath of the initial announcement, said the two years since the scheme was announced had been blighted by fear and uncertainty.

It has written to St Josephs chiefs urging them to involve residents in 'genuine consultation and collaboration.

In a hard-hitting statement, the group said: "Ladywood Unite notes with deep concern the recent signing and exchange of contracts between Birmingham City Council and the Berkeley Group for the proposed Ladywood Regeneration Project.