Angry scenes as plans to regenerate 'ignored' Druids Heath approved

A HUGE regeneration scheme for a “forgotten” area of Birmingham has been approved - sparking angry outbursts and protests from concerned residents.

- ALEXANDER BROCK Local Democracy Reporter

Birmingham City Council's enormous project is set to transform Druids Heath and provide around 3,500 new homes.

Green spaces, new infrastructure and transport links are also planned, while commercial and community spaces would be revitalised.

There are also proposals for sports facilities and a “vibrant” high street, according to a planning application lodged earlier this year.

But local people have been concerned about the potential impact on the community, fearing existing residents will be priced out of the area.

Residents gathered outside Birmingham Council House yesterday and then at a planning meeting to make their voices heard from the public gallery.

Before the meeting, Druids Heath resident Clare Woodward said: “My dad is 76, and he’s lived there 40 odd years.

"Are they going to kick him out of his house at his age? I’m worried about where my dad and I will go; I've got four children.

"We've known some of our neighbours all of my life; the sense of community there is lovely.”

Asked for her message to Birmingham City Council, she said: “Don’t knock our homes down. Regenerate the area, but you don’t need to demolish it all.”