Richborough has submitted an outline planning application for a new neighbourhood in Knowle, Solihull, providing up to 300 new homes.
The landscape-driven scheme, located off Kenilworth Road, will aim to provide homes for people at every stage of life and respond to local housing need, including a significant affordable housing provision.
The plans also include a significant proportion of public open space, including a new community park with the potential for a sports pitch, equipped areas of play, informal play areas, a community orchard and spaces for nature and ecological biodiversity. New and improved pedestrian links will also connect to existing routes into Knowle and the surrounding countryside and measures proposed for Kenilworth Road would enable it to be downgraded to “quiet lane” status to reduce traffic speeds and improve the environment.
Under the guidance of Richborough’s group design director, Charlotte Lewis, the masterplan has been founded on best practice urban design principles and includes a design code to ensure the appointed development partner delivers our vision for the site. It has also been shaped by extensive pre-application engagement, including consultation with local community and stakeholders and invaluable feedback from an independent design review panel.
Katie Saunders, regional manager at Richborough, said: “Our design‑led proposals respond positively to Knowle’s distinctive character, combining this with modern, sustainable development principles. The scheme will deliver a mix of much‑needed new homes in a highly sustainable location, with convenient access to local shops, services, and public transport connections.”
“We look forward to working closely with Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council and statutory consultees as the application progresses, with the aim of ultimately bringing the site to market for delivery by a high‑quality development partner.”
David Green of Delta Planning, who supported both the landowners and Richborough in preparing the planning application, added: “We are delighted to have been part of the team bringing this highly sustainable site forward to planning submission. If planning is forthcoming, the proposals would provide a valuable contribution to both the Borough’s housing needs and local community infrastructure.”
