The second phase of the Longbridge regeneration scheme has been given the green light by Birmingham City Council’s Planning Committee.
Plans include the development of a landmark 150,000 sq ft Marks & Spencer store at the 468-acre former MG Rover site.
The new M&S store will be arranged over two floors, and will be one of the largest in the UK for the retailer.
The local council’s planning committee has also approved of the proposals for additional 45,000 sq ft of retail space, together with surface and multi-storey car parks.
The new development is expected to create more than 500 construction jobs during its construction phase, and up to 350 permanent jobs following its completion.
Construction work is set to begin in autumn of this year, with completion scheduled for the winter of 2015.
St Modwen chief executive, Bill Oliver, commented on the announcement: "The development of the new 150,000 sq ft Marks & Spencer store, the anchor of the second phase of the new town centre at Longbridge, represents a significant milestone at this major regeneration project and is a key part of our overall aim to create business and employment opportunities in the area."
Birmingham City Council leader, Sir Albert Bore, added: "It is extremely encouraging for Longbridge to see this substantial level of investment from a major national retailer.
"This significant commitment by Marks & Spencer is a reflection of the ever-increasing confidence being generated by Longbridge and in south west Birmingham and recognition of the impressive impact St Modwen has made in the regeneration of this important brownfield site."
The £1bn regeneration scheme of Longbridge town will span over 15 years regeneration project, and is expected to create of up to 2,000 houses as well as employment and retail facilities to support up to 10,000 commercial, operational and technical jobs.
Photo Source: Birmingham Post
