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Solihull Orbital to Be Demolished for New Development

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. rbital-to-be-demolished-for-new-development.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Saturday, February 7th 2026 at 0:38 GMT by Birmingham Mail
      Locales: West Midlands, UNITED KINGDOM

Solihull, UK - February 7th, 2026 - The once-bustling Solihull Orbital shopping centre is slated for complete demolition, making way for a sprawling new development promising a modern mix of retail, leisure, and residential spaces. Approved by Solihull Council, the ambitious project signals a significant and controversial shift in the heart of this affluent West Midlands town. While proponents herald the scheme as a catalyst for economic growth and job creation, critics voice concerns about affordability, disruption, and the potential impact on existing local businesses.

The Orbital, a landmark of the 1980s retail boom, has suffered a marked decline in recent years, mirroring the struggles faced by many traditional shopping centres across the UK. A wave of store closures, fueled by the rise of online shopping and changing consumer habits, left significant vacancies, diminishing the centre's appeal and ultimately leading to this drastic redevelopment plan. The decision wasn't taken lightly, with extensive feasibility studies undertaken over the past two years to assess the viability of refurbishment versus complete reconstruction. Ultimately, the Council concluded that a ground-up redevelopment offered the best long-term solution for revitalising this key town centre site.

The approved plans envision a vibrant, multi-use space anchored by a new, full-scale department store - a significant draw expected to entice shoppers back to the town centre. This will be complemented by a diverse range of restaurants, a modern multi-screen cinema, and a substantial number of apartments aimed at attracting both young professionals and downsizing residents. The development aims to create a 'live, work, play' environment, fostering a sense of community and extending the town centre's appeal beyond traditional shopping hours.

Demolition is now scheduled to commence in early 2025, with the entire phased development projected to span several years. This protracted construction period will inevitably lead to significant disruption for both shoppers and local businesses. Traffic management will be a critical challenge, with concerns raised about increased congestion and potential difficulties accessing nearby shops and services. The Council has pledged to implement comprehensive traffic mitigation strategies, including temporary road closures, diversions, and enhanced public transport options, but the scale of the operation suggests that some level of inconvenience is unavoidable.

The economic benefits are being strongly promoted by Birmingham City Council, with Leader Cllr Ian Ward stating, "This is an exciting development for Solihull and the wider region. It will bring new jobs, investment, and opportunities for local residents." Initial estimates suggest the project will generate hundreds of construction jobs and thousands more permanent positions within the new retail, leisure, and residential sectors. The increased footfall is also expected to benefit existing businesses in the surrounding area.

However, not everyone shares this optimistic outlook. A vocal group of local residents and business owners have expressed concerns that the new development will be out of reach for many, with the apartments likely to be priced at a premium and the restaurants catering to a higher-end market. They fear the redevelopment will contribute to the gentrification of the town centre, displacing existing businesses and alienating local residents. The 'Save Solihull' campaign group, formed in opposition to the plans, argues that the focus should be on supporting existing businesses and preserving the town's unique character, rather than pursuing large-scale, potentially unaffordable redevelopment.

"We're not against progress," explains Sarah Jenkins, a spokesperson for 'Save Solihull'. "But this development feels like it's designed for a different Solihull - one that doesn't reflect the needs and values of the people who actually live and work here. We need affordable housing, support for independent businesses, and a town centre that's accessible to everyone, not just those who can afford to spend a lot of money."

The debate highlights a wider trend in urban redevelopment - the tension between economic growth and social equity. As town centres across the UK grapple with the challenges of a changing retail landscape, finding a balance between attracting investment and preserving the character and accessibility of local communities remains a key priority. The Solihull Orbital redevelopment will undoubtedly reshape the town centre, but whether it does so for the better remains to be seen. The coming years will be crucial in determining whether this ambitious project delivers on its promises and truly benefits all of Solihull's residents.