The Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government has given the green light for an £80m town centre scheme in Shirley in Solihull.

Hazel Blears has approved the compulsory purchase order to unlock the 200,000 sq ft of retail space anchored by a 90,000 sq ft ASDA store which is being developed by Solihull Council and Shirley Advance.

The decision follows a major inquiry into the Parkgate scheme in May 2008.

However, the scheme could still be delayed in the current climate.

Robert Birch of Shirley Advance said: ‘However, given the current state of the economy, we do anticipate some further delays whilst we pursue the non-food retail lettings required to ensure that all the aspects of the scheme remain financially viable.’

Councillor Ken Hawkins, cabinet member for resources at Solihull Council, said it would continue to work with Shirley Advance to bring about the regeneration of Shirley Town Centre.

Topics