Locals fear future after £2bn Ladywood deal

Still uncertainty over 'once-in-a-generation' regeneration project

- JANE HAYNES News Reporter

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.

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

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

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

In a 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.

"While we acknowledge the potential benefits of investment and development in Ladywood, we are profoundly concerned that this process has proceeded without genuine consultation or collaboration with the community. From the very beginning, residents have consistently been sidelined from decision making processes, leaving residents feeling unheard, disempowered, and disregarded."

They highlighted key concerns: