ECF, a client of PLMR’s Midlands and Built Environment practice, has secured planning permission from the City of Wolverhampton Council for its plans for the city’s largest regeneration opportunity.

ECF – a joint venture between Homes England, Legal & General, and Muse – working in partnership with the council, submitted proposals for City Centre West in November 2024.

This included detailed plans for phase one – which includes 241 Build-to-Rent apartments and 90 affordable homes with new retail opportunities and public space – and outline plans for the remaining three phases of the masterplan.

Taken together, it could create over 1,000 new homes, including affordable, alongside shops, cafes, restaurants, and high-quality public spaces as part of an exciting new neighbourhood.

PLMR worked with ECF to help secure planning permission by executing a comprehensive strategy which included community and stakeholder engagement, as well as wider communications support and political insight.

As part of this work, the PLMR team led the delivery of an extensive public consultation campaign to engage with local residents, businesses and stakeholders. The result was not only valuable feedback that helped shape the proposals, but an enthusiastic community who embraced the opportunity.

Following the decision, the exciting new area will be re-named to Smithgate in a nod to the city’s historic metalworks.

“We’re very proud to have worked alongside the team to help achieve approval for this major milestone project in Wolverhampton.

“Smithgate is the largest regeneration opportunity in the city and will see underutilised brownfield sites transformed as part of a vibrant and active new neighbourhood. With over 1,000 homes, including affordable, shops, cafes, restaurants and public spaces forming part of the masterplan, it is something which will drive substantial social and economic growth that will benefit the whole community.

“In partnership with ECF, we were committed to providing a real opportunity for the local community and stakeholders to take part in a meaningful public consultation. We are proud to have delivered against this commitment.

“The team has been delighted to have played a part in reaching this milestone moment.”