Mell Square – Transformative change for Solihull

Emerging plans for the regeneration of Solihull town centre’s Mell Square have been unveiled by Muse, the nationwide placemaker, in partnership with Solihull Council.

Designed by Howells, the plans will re-invigorate the area and unlock its full potential with new public spaces, leisure facilities, and homes—as part of a diverse and mixed-use community.

Mell Square will enhance Solihull’s existing visitor experience with new shops, experiences, and facilities curated to respond to the emerging community and serve the town centre more widely.

The unveiling at UKREiiF comes after a recent series of initial engagement activities which looked at people’s priorities and requirements for the town centre into the future.

The regeneration of Mell Square will be the subject of further consultation with the community over the coming months.

Maggie Grogan, Managing Director for Muse Midlands

“We have worked closely and in partnership with Solihull Council to develop an exciting, transformational masterplan proposal for Mell Square to support the evolution of the town centre.

“As an already successful and vibrant place, our challenge is to enhance what works well and re-invigorating the area is critical to our approach, adapting to the changing needs of consumers and the community.

“By delivering more town centre living, smaller and bespoke new public spaces, more places to spend leisure time, an evening and nighttime economy, and more jobs and training opportunities we can help bring an exciting new feel to Solihull.”

Cllr Ian Courts, Leader of Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

“Solihull enjoys a well-established reputation as a vibrant, attractive and welcoming destination for high quality shopping, business and leisure. With a proven track record of attracting high quality occupiers and investment, we have one of the best-performing town centres in the country. However, as retail habits and the way we use our local centres continue to change, we need to ensure what we are offering also evolves. It’s important that we plan and invest now so that Solihull town centre remains an exciting, thriving and accessible place for people to enjoy.

“As well as creating new space for high quality retailers, restaurateurs, independent businesses and providing a range of new housing right in the heart of the town centre, this scheme will also bring benefits for the wider borough in terms of investment, new jobs and training opportunities. Over time, new communities making their homes in our town centre will bring a boost to local businesses and feed our growing evening economy.

I’m really excited with what Muse and Howells have produced so far and am looking forward to consulting on our emerging masterplan soon.”