Major Birmingham proposals to redevelop former GKN factory site take step forward

Major proposals to redevelop the site of the former GKN factory in Erdington have taken an important step forward. GKN Automotive, a global engineering and manufacturing company, announced plans to close the car parts factory in 2021, a decision which impacted hundreds of workers.

But the Chester Road site could soon be transformed if plans are given the green light by Birmingham City Council’s planning committee this week. The proposals, recommended for approval, would see the demolition of all buildings to make way for ‘industrial and logistics units’, parking, landscaping and an electric vehicle charging station.

A council officer’s report said the development, as a ‘replacement’ of the outdated existing building, would improve the appearance of the area. It said the development would have “no adverse effect on residential amenity or highway safety, or detrimental environmental impacts”.

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Those behind the proposed development said in a design document: “The scheme has the potential to deliver a realistic quantum of employment space given the available site area whilst considering and respecting adjacent residents and business users. The design approach offers a clear and logical layout that will provide not only a safe and secure working environment but also an enhancement to the local region.

“The site will be developed to be a fully inclusive employment environment which will be attractive to occupiers thereby promoting new employment uses in the area". The planning application, which is recommended for approval subject to a legal agreement, is set to be considered at a planning committee on Thursday, November 28.