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For more information on shopping, entertainment and what’s on in Solihull visit: www.solihullbid.co.uk or call: 0121 285 1370
Welcome to the Summer edition of InSolihull.
In this edition we unveil all the wonderful new openings in fabulous Solihull, discover what’s on including festivals, cinema and theatre, and read about the huge redevelopment plans which start taking shape in June within Mell Square.
We share our updates on the new Business Crime Reduction Partnership detailing how the whole Solihull community is working in partnership to deter crime, with the BID team coordinating plans with our local Police. We are proud of the fact we remain one of the safest places to work and visit in the UK.
So, bring on the sunshine, treat yourselves to something sparkly, and enjoy some leisure time with your favourite tipple in the evergreen Solihull.
Offering a unique and personal shopping experience since 1961 that we re-invent every season to intrigue you. Our Solihull town centre store is filled with the latest transitional collections and on-trend designs.
The best independent international luxury labels nestle on our rails. Many are exclusive to us and are not available on the internet; this means we are able to offer clients many different looks that are not found in other boutiques and stores.
An Aladdin’s cave filled with an eclectic mix of style for all ages.
PANDORA
Pink Flower Tennis Necklace
Price: £149
GENEVA 9K White Gold Emerald Halo Ring
Price from: £1,691
ALL T HAT
PANDORA
Double Flower Cocktail Ring
Price: £109
AUSTEN & BLAKE
Bluebell Platinum(950) Pear Gemstone Earrings
Price from: £1,750
Touchwood Solihull
Mill Ln, Solihull B91
SWAROVSKI
Ariana Grande x Swarovski stud earrings
Price: £119
KURT GEIGER
BUTTERFLY MULE SANDAL
Price: £169
GLITTERS
SWAROVSKI
Ariana Grande x Swarovski bangle
Price: £169
KURT GEIGER
SMALL SOUTHBANK TOTE BAG
Price: £169
Touchwood Solihull Poplar Rd, Solihull B91 3GZ
Touchwood Solihull SU05, Homer Rd, Solihull B91 3RA
TOPSHOP
John Lewis has announced a major expansion of its Fashion business, headlined by the exclusive return of Topshop to physical retail.
The strategy marks the latest milestone in a broader £800m multi-year investment to elevate the John Lewis shopping experience nationwide.
The centerpiece of this transformation is the highly-anticipated return of Topshop to the physical high street after a five-year absence. Topshop is now exclusively available nationwide across 32 John Lewis stores, including Solihull.
Designed in London, Topshop relentlessly prioritises creativity and originality, setting the trends rather than following them.
John Lewis & Partners Solihull
Touchwood Shopping Centre
Solihull
B91 3RA
JOHN LEWIS & PARTNERS SOLIHULL
Treat yourself to a personalised Clarins spa treatment, expertly blending effective, plant-enriched formulas with the famous 'Clarins Touch'.
Infusing over 65 years of expertise into every single treatment, Clarins offer visible results and an unrivalled sensorial experience.
From express 10-minute therapies to indulgent massages and facials, a Clarins treatment will fit effortlessly into your day.
Experience a range of personalised treatments, blending incredibly effective, plant-enriched formulas and sixty-five years of professional experience.
CLARINS
Danish homewares and lifestyle brand Sostrene Grene, has opened its first store in Solihull, becoming the latest addition to Solihull High Street
Shoppers can explore the much-loved Danish brand’s seasonal collections, featuring contemporary home interiors, creative hobby items, children’s toys, soft furniture, kitchen accessories and more – all inspired by Søstrene Grene’s signature aesthetic.
With over 380 stores worldwide and more than 70 in the UK, Søstrene Grene continues to expand its presence, bringing its distinctive blend of affordability, design and calm shopping experiences to new locations.
Mikkel Grene, Group CEO and co-owner of Søstrene Grene, comments: “At Søstrene Grene, we’re all very excited to bring our brand experience to Solihull. Customers will be able to discover our wide range of charming, thoughtfully curated products and we believe that every visit offers a sense of calmness, with delightful surprises around every corner.”
UK partner, Jonathan Cooper, who operates Søstrene Grene stores across the North of England, also shares his enthusiasm for the opening.
Jonathan comments: “Following our initial announcement, we’ve received such a positive response and believe it will be a fantastic addition to the High Street. We look forward to welcoming shoppers.”
To find out more about Søstrene Grene visit: https://sostrenegrene.com or follow them on Instagram: @sostrenegrene
sostrenegrene.com
SØSTRENE GRENE
BIRMINGHAM HOSPICE
Shoppers in Solihull can now bag a bargain while backing a vital cause, as Birmingham Hospice has officially opened the doors to its brand-new superstore in Mell Square
The spacious 7,000 sq. ft store marks Birmingham Hospice’s latest expansion and strengthens their mission to fund expert palliative and end of life care for people across Birmingham and the surrounding areas.
Located in the heart of Solihull town centre, the new store offers an extensive range of quality pre-loved fashion, homeware and one of the area’s few dedicated selections of second-hand furniture – giving the community even more ways to shop sustainably while supporting a local cause.
Shop manager Sam Johnson said: “We are delighted to bring a new Birmingham Hospice charity superstore to Solihull. This exciting opening not only provides residents with a fantastic new shopping destination, seven days a week, but more importantly supports the vital work Birmingham Hospice does for individuals and families across the local community.”
BIRMINGHAM HOSPICE SUPERSTORE
Jonathan Varley, Head of Retail at Birmingham Hospice, said: “Our dedicated shop team have worked incredibly hard to create a welcoming and distinctive space where the community can browse, discover great finds at fantastic value. We’re also proud to serve as the area’s local charity furniture shop, offering high quality furniture at affordable prices.”
He added: “Last year, it cost Birmingham Hospice £18.8 million to deliver care, more than £51,000 every single day, and with costs expected to rise to £19 million this year, they need to £7.2 million through fundraising, shop income and voluntary donations to continue running their vital services.
“With 42% of our funding needing to come from voluntary income, and with national figures from Hospice UK showing that one in four families who need hospice care are unable to access it, we are really encouraging shoppers in Solihull to support this new store, as income from our retail shops is essential to ensure more local people can receive the compassionate end of life care they deserve.”
Birmingham Hospice Solihull Superstore is located at Unit 4-8 Mell Square, Solihull B91 3AY and is open 9am – 4.30pm Monday to Saturday, 10.30am – 4.30pm Sunday.
SWEATY BETTY LISA ANGEL
Sweaty Betty has opened its first store in the West Midlands in Solihull.
The women’s activewear brand, known for its range of gym and yoga apparel, has taken a 2,283 sq ft unit, fronting onto Solihull High Street, on a five-year lease.
Sweaty Betty joins a number of major brands at Touchwood, including Apple – which recently tripled its presence at the scheme – John Lewis, Zara, Mango, Rituals, Miele, Oliver Bonas, and the newly-opened Space NK.
Following its acquisition of Touchwood in 2021, owner The Ardent Companies and asset manager Sovereign Centros from CBRE have looked to implement a strategy focused on diversifying and expanding the destination’s tenant mix and offer by bringing in new retail brands, dining options, and leisure operators.
Joe Swindells, asset management and development director for Ardent, said: “Sweaty Betty is indicative of the aspirational brands we have worked hard to bring to Touchwood, and its arrival at the scheme – for its first store in the West Midlands – represents yet another fantastic addition to what we can offer visitors.”
SOLIHULL
The West Midlands’ leading retail and leisure destination, Touchwood, has further strengthened its lineup with the arrival of Lisa Angel at the Solihull scheme
Lisa Angel – which specialises in personalised jewellery, gifts and accessories – has taken a 986sq ft store on a new 10-year lease.
In another boost for Touchwood’s jewellery offer, Danish brand Pandora has recommitted to the scheme, extending the lease on its 2,476sq ft boutique until September 2031.
The arrival of Lisa Angel and continuing presence of Pandora strengthen what is already the region’s foremost retail lineup.
Joe Swindells, Asset Management & Development Director for Ardent, said: “Touchwood has long been a destination for jewellers and the arrival of Lisa Angel – added to Pandora’s renewed commitment to the scheme – strengthens this offer further.
“Our focus has always been on making Touchwood the West Midlands’ leading retail and leisure destination and bringing brands such as Lisa Angel into the scheme is a key part of this approach.” SWEATY BETTY
WHY USE METRO BANK FOR YOUR TRUST ACCOUNT
?
The only high-street bank offering trust accounts, we have a Trust Centre dedicated banking team that will support you through the creation of your account and you can always visit your local Solihull branch for assistance.
We offer a Trust Bank Account – for the day-to-day running of the trust and its assets – and a Trust Fixed Term Account – where you can lock in a fixed rate on funds you won’t need access to for a while.
What are the benefits of opening a Trust Bank Account with us?
Our team of specialists are here to help you open a Trust Account with ease.
Have your application reviewed by a specialist within 15 working days
Access a dedicated team available for help and support via phone and email
Fully transactional Trust Bank Account with online banking and cheque book
Benefit from free transactions*
Access your account online, in-store, or by phone
* There may be charges for CHAPS and international payments. 2. 3. 1.
3 Steps to Obtaining a Trust Bank Account
Trustees attend your local Metro Bank branch on Solihull High Street.
The Trust Centre team will review your application and contact you if further information is needed.
Once the account is open, the Trust Centre team will reach out with account details and instructions on how to register for online and telephone banking.
METRO BANK
TOY STORY 5 JUNE 19TH
The toys are back in Disney and Pixar’s “Toy Story 5,” and this time it’s Toy meets Tech. Buzz, Woody, Jessie and the rest of the gang’s jobs are challenged when they’re introduced to what kids are obsessed with today.... electronics!
THE ODYSSEY JULY 17TH
Christopher Nolan’s next film, The Odyssey, is a mythic action epic shot across the world using brand new IMAX film technology. The film brings Homer’s foundational saga to IMAX film screens for the first time and opens in cinemas on July 17, 2026. The Odyssey stars Matt Damon, Tom Holland, Anne Hathaway, Robert Pattinson and Lupita Nyong’o, with Zendaya and Charlize Theron.
THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA 2 MAY 1ST
Twenty years after making their iconic turns as Miranda, Andy, Emily and Nigel—Meryl Streep, Anne Hathaway, Emily Blunt and Stanley Tucci return to the fashionable streets of New York City and the sleek offices of Runway Magazine in 20th Century Studios’ “The Devil Wears Prada 2,” the eagerly awaited sequel to the 2006 phenomenon that defined a generation.
CINEWORLD SOLIHULL
47 Upper Jubilee Walk
Touchwood Shopping Centre
B91 3QW
www.cineworld.co.uk/cinemas/solihull
0330 333 4444
THE CORE THEATRE UPCOMING HIGHLIGHTS
SHAPPI KHORSANDI –SATURDAY 9 MAY, 8PM
Celebrated comedian and author Shappi Khorsandi, known for her fearless, funny takes on identity, family, and modern life, headlines the monthly Funny to The Core comedy club at The Core Theatre, on Saturday 9 May.
Joining Shappi on the bill will be Pierre Hollins, Jason Patterson and Chris Brooker. Book your tickets for what’s sure to be a hilarious evening at www. thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk or call 0121 704 6962.
STRANGE, BUT TRUE CRIME – WEDNESDAY 17 JUNE, 7.30PM
Fascinated by true crime? Want to know more about the story behind some of the world’s most bizarre crimes? Strange, But True Crime at The Core Theatre on Wednesday 17 June is the show for you! Sensitively presented by ex-forensics lecturer Jennifer Rees, this talk show is an informative, eyeopening, and compelling night - not to be missed.
Book your tickets for this fascinating evening at www.thecoretheatresolihull. co.uk or call 0121 704 6962.
THE CORE OUTDOOR, SWORD IN THE STONE IN BRUETON PARKSATURDAY 25 JULY, 5PM
The Core Theatre moves to scenic Brueton Park in the centre of Solihull, for the first of three special outdoor theatre shows this summer! Bring a blanket, pack a picnic and enjoy Sword in the Stone, a fantastic family show of friendship and courage, on Saturday 25 July at 5pm.
Tickets available at www.thecoretheatresolihull.co.uk or call 0121 704 6962.
Solihull town centre has a new watering hole
Doyle's Bar has opened its doors to the public, bringing a slice of Dublin hospitality to the West Midlands
The new independent bar is bringing the Old Council House back into use after previously operating as the Assembly Rooms and Yates Bar.
The building’s history dates back to 1876 and initially served as the Solihull Council House before changing use.
An exciting future now lies ahead for the building on Poplar Road with the addition of a brand-new independent bar, owned by Solihull local Joe Doyle.
Doyle’s Bar are looking to become one of the town’s must-visit venues with live music, live sport, great beers, cocktails, wines, spirits and delicious food available.
You’ll also be able to test you and your loved ones with interactive games on site including darts, shuffleboard and pool.
Doyle's represents a welcome injection of independent spirit into the town centre hospitality scene.
Joe Doyle, Owner, said: “Doyle’s will build a welcoming venue that combines great atmosphere, live entertainment and quality food and drink. As an independent bar, Doyle’s aims to become a lively social hub where locals can meet friends, enjoy live performances and experience something a little different in the town centre.
“Doyle’s will feature a strong programme of live music, showcasing local bands, talented singers and regular entertainment nights. Alongside the music, guests can enjoy a variety of interactive games, including interactive darts, shuffleboard and pool, making it a perfect spot for both casual evenings and group nights out.
“Sports fans will also feel at home at Doyle’s, with the venue showing a wide range of live sporting events throughout the year.”
Speaking ahead of the opening, Joe added: “I’ve grown up in Solihull and have always wanted to create something of our own here. Doyle’s is about bringing people together - great music, good food, brilliant drinks and a fun atmosphere. We want it to be a place where everyone feels welcome.
“With its mix of entertainment, sport, food and drinks, Doyle’s Bar aims to become one of Solihull town centre’s most exciting new destinations.”
BRINGING A SLICE OF DUBLIN TO SOLIHULL
DOYLE’S BAR
In the heart of Solihull town centre, a familiar name has undergone a transformation
Originally rooted in an early 19th-century building with ties stretching back to the 1750s, The Mason’s Arms has long been part of Solihull’s fabric. The recent refurbishment respects this lineage while introducing a cleaner, more cohesive interior aesthetic.
Whether guests are stopping in for a relaxed breakfast, a working lunch, or a lively weekend gathering, the upgraded layout enhances flow and visibility, particularly around the bar, improving service efficiency during peak hours.
Beyond aesthetics, the refurbishment reinforces the pub’s role as an entertainment venue. Large screens for live sport, already a staple, are now better integrated into the interior. Meanwhile, the outdoor beer garden – often described as one of the venue’s standout features – has been refreshed to extend usability throughout the year, with heating and improved seating arrangements.
The new and improved seating areas will no doubt be hugely popular come the summer with the 2026 FIFA World Cup starting in June. England fixtures are sure to create an electric atmosphere both inside and outside the venue.
MASONS ARMS
COME ON ENGLAND
ENGLAND GROUP L FIXTURES
ENGLAND V CROATIA – Wednesday 17th June, 21.00 kick off
ENGLAND V GHANA – Tuesday 23rd June, 21.00 kick off
PANAMA V ENGLAND – Saturday 27th June, 22.00 kick off
The food and drink offering has evolved alongside the physical redesign. Retaining its reputation for value-driven pub classics, the popular lunch time offer of a tasty meal and a drink from £8.95 remains on the menu.
“Whether you’re in the mood for a pint and a bangin’ burger with mates, catching up over small plates after work, or starting your weekend with a breakfast of champions, we’ve got you covered. Great food, good banter – only at The Mason's Arms.”
MASONS ARMS
Prominent Solihull High
Street building set for transformation
Solihull Council has entered an agreement with the award-winning Heartwood Inns to transform the former Missoula and Luna unit on Solihull High Street.
The development – which is part of a wider strategy to invest in Solihull – will provide a contemporary ‘pub with rooms’, breathing a new lease of life into the prominent listed building.
In a nod to the area’s natural heritage, Heartwood has announced that the site will be renamed The Muddy Fox. With the name 'Solihull' said to derive from the ‘soily hill’ on which St Alphege church stands, the name pays tribute to the pub’s former identity while also reflecting the area’s history.
Heartwood Inns is part of the Heartwood Collection, backed by Alchemy Partnersan award-winning group of cosy pubs and atmospheric brasseries rooted at the heart of their local communities.
The acquisition will see The Muddy Fox undergo a multi-million-pound refurbishment, creating 25 beautifully designed bedrooms alongside a landscaped terrace and garden, offering a series of intimate spaces for guests to relax and unwind.
The bar and dining areas will also form warm, welcoming spaces infused with Heartwood’s signature charm, where guests can enjoy the group’s seasonally changing menus and carefully curated drinks list.
Each boutique-style bedroom will feature thoughtful details including Roberts radios, Bramley toiletries, Chromecast televisions, and rainfall showers, with select rooms also offering free-standing baths.
On opening, The Muddy Fox will become Heartwood’s ninth pub with rooms, its first pub with rooms in the West Midlands, and will take the group’s total room count to almost 300.
Councillor Ian Courts, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Managed Growth at Solihull Council, said: “The Muddy Fox will be a wonderful addition to Solihull. The development represents a significant boost for our town centre, helping to strengthen the local economy, creating jobs and increasing footfall on our high street.
“As well as enhancing this prominent building, it also supports our wider ambition to create a welcoming, highquality evening and leisure offer. We look forward to the benefits it will bring to residents, visitors, and local businesses.”
Heartwood Collection CEO, Richard Ferrier, said: “We are delighted to be working with Solihull Council on the transformation of this characterful old coaching inn. We intend to invest significantly in the property with the aim of creating a beautiful pub with rooms that will reopen as The Muddy Fox and once again be a valued part of Solihull’s town centre.”
Heartwood Inns will now begin working on a detailed planning application, which will be submitted to Solihull Council for consideration by spring 2026. If the plans are approved, work is expected to begin in 2026.
THE MUDDY FOX
Solihull’s biggest free music festival returns this summer with a brand-new look and even more electric performances!
The Solihull Music Festival is one of the region’s most loved annual events and will this year take place between the 19th and 21st of June across Solihull town centre.
To ensure even more of the town centre experiences the Music Festival atmosphere, there will be two stages on the High Street; one by Metro Bank and one up towards The Mason’s Arms.
There will be an even wider range of genres including pop throughout the decades, rock, indie, opera, pianist, classical, jazz, musical theatre, choirs and even a silent disco!
Whether you’re discovering emerging talent or enjoying established regional acts, there’s something to suit every musical taste and don’t forget all musical performances and kids workshops are free!.
Beyond the performances, visitors can expect a rich festival atmosphere, complete with the Continental Street Food Market from RR Events, children’s musical activities, vintage buses and plenty more.
Easily accessible and family-friendly, Solihull Music Festival 2026 is the perfect way to enjoy the summer. Mark your calendar and prepare to immerse yourself in a dynamic celebration of sound right in the heart of Solihull!
To keep up to date with all the latest news on our Events & Festivals, sign up for our Newsletter by scanning the QR Code
solihullbid.co.uk
MUSIC FESTIVAL
STAGES LINEUP
SUNDAY 21ST JUNE
VENUES LINEUP
FRIDAY 19th
Crowne Plaza
Slug & Lettuce
St Alphege Church
Wing Kingz
The Beech House
O’Neill’s
Flute & Flagon
Cote
Zizzi
Solihull Pride is set to return in 2026, bringing another vibrant celebration of inclusivity, diversity and community spirit to Solihull town centre
The event, once again supported by npower Business Solutions (nBS) as Headline Sponsor and additional support sponsors, will take place on Saturday, 8th August 2026, as part of a packed calendar of town centre festivities.
Following the success of its inaugural event in 2025, which attracted thousands of visitors, Solihull Pride has quickly established itself as a major highlight in the town’s cultural programme.
The first celebration transformed the town centre into a colourful hub of activity, featuring a lively parade, live performances, and a bustling street food market.
Event Host Phil Oldershaw will return for 2026 and the event is expected to build on last year’s momentum, once again filling the heart of Solihull with rainbows, entertainment and community-led activities.
Organised by Solihull BID with support from local businesses, Pride aims to provide a welcoming space for LGBTQ+ people, allies and residents alike, while promoting messages of equality and acceptance.
ACTS PERFORMING AT T HE EVENT
Fatt Butcher
Boogaloo Babes
Pop Voices
Drag Abba
Ace & Charlie Harper
Big Liz Ivory Glam
Prossie Tot
The main stage in Mell Square will once again be supported by several town centre venues hosting entertainment, special offers and safe spaces.
As anticipation builds for August 2026, Solihull Pride continues to play an important role in strengthening community ties and showcasing the town as an inclusive and welcoming destination.
HELP MAURICE THE SHEEP!
HELLO, MY NAME IS MAURICE THE SHEEP.
I am a friend of Solihull town centre, which is also known as the ‘Town in the Country’ because of all the amazing green spaces we have!
Lots of my friends live in the fields and farms surrounding the town and they all love Solihull too.
I was named after Mr Maurice Mell, a town clerk, who helped to design Mell Square back in the 1960s.
Maurice needs some help to find his farmyard friends.
Follow the trail and collect the free stickers to make his farmyard come to life.
The free farmyard trail runs from May 23rd to May 31st. Simply pick up a trail booklet from the Touchwood information desk, complete the trail and fill in the form, then post into the post box back at the Touchwood info desk or inside The Works on the High Street! One lucky winner will be given a £100 Touchwood gift voucher!
Maurice will be visiting the town too on Wednesday 27th May to help you find his friends, come and grab a sheepy selfie and fluffy hug.
MAY HALF TERM TRAIL
MAURICE
Touchwood car park Solihull
Homer Road, B91 3GJ
A SAFER FUTURE FOR SOLIHULL
A Safer Future for Solihull: The Launch of the Town Centre BCRP
In the heart of Solihull, a new chapter in community safety has begun with the creation of the Solihull Town Centre Business Crime Reduction Partnership (BCRP). Designed as a collaborative response to the evolving current environment, the initiative marks a decisive step toward safeguarding businesses, employees, and visitors alike.
The partnership was formally launched during National BCRP Awareness Week. The BCRP is bringing together key stakeholders, uniting local businesses with law enforcement and public sector partners. The inaugural meeting was led by BCRP Chair Melanie Palmer, Chief Executive of Solihull Business Improvement District (BID), and included representatives from West Midlands Police, Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council, Touchwood Shopping Centre and Mell Square.
At its core, the BCRP is built on fostering closer working relationships between retailers, security professionals, and policing teams. The partnership enables more consistent reporting, better intelligence sharing, and a unified operational response.
Melanie Palmer, Chief Executive of Solihull BID and Chair of the Solihull Town Centre BCRP, said: “The official launch of the BCRP has been a long time coming and is a result of a lot of hard work from all town centre partners.
“We are now working closer than ever with local Police and our town centre stakeholders to ensure Solihull remains one of the safest and most welcoming places in the region, to work, live and visit.
“We have a zero-tolerance stance to any kind of crime or anti-social behaviour in the town centre and with the launch of the BCRP, that is clearer than ever.”
Ultimately, the BCRP represents more than a crime reduction tool—it is a statement of intent. By aligning public and private sector efforts, Solihull is positioning itself as a town committed to resilience, collaboration, and community confidence.
BCRP
BUSINESS FESTIVAL
Solihull BID celebrated its vast professional services and office-based sector in the town centre with the recent Solihull Business Festival
The week included a range of different activities and events for employees to get involved in and showed the continued strength of the Solihull business community.
The vibrant office sector attended the BID’s much-loved Pub Quiz at the Solihull Royal British Legion with Lucent Financial Planning finishing on top.
The following day started with an Office Sector Forum at Boston Tea Party where
leaders from across the business community came together to network and learn more about the economic landscape of Solihull and the exciting future plans for Mell Square with an update from guest speaker Peter Carroll, Head of Strategic Land and Property at Solihull Council.
Self defence classes followed that before the finale of the week, the Solihull BID Card re-launch at the Crowne Plaza. Over 25 town centre businesses exhibited and around 1,000 people visited to collect their new BID Cards – an employee privilege card for town centre workers – and find out more about some of the town’s best retail, hospitality and leisure businesses.
The week shone a light on the backbone of the town centre economy and showcased the strong engagement Solihull BID has with town centre stakeholders and local businesses.
HOLBECHE PLACE DEVELOPMENT
Plans to transform Mell Square with up to 1,600 homes, retail, and new public spaces have been approved by Solihull Council
Muse, the leading national developer, have been working in partnership with Solihull Council since 2023 to develop the transformational mixed-use masterplan. It is part of a wider commitment to long term investment in Solihull, seeking to diversify and boost the economy whilst responding to evolving lifestyles and consumer habits.
The neighbourhood, which includes new flexible green spaces to support a vibrant multi-purpose central district filled with food, drink, and entertainment venues, will now be taken forward under a new name and vision – ‘Holbeche Place’.
The new identity draws on Solihull’s historical roots, referencing the prominent Holbeche family who helped shape the early fabric of Solihull. They first lived at Touchwood Hall, which stood in Drury Lane (part of the redevelopment site) for over 250 years. Reflecting on its deep local heritage, this vision will forge a new sense of place and community in the heart of Solihull town centre. This marks the start of the Holbeche Place story, with future announcements to come.
Holbeche Place will deliver homes for the whole community, including a mix of build-to-rent, affordable housing and open market sale, helping to attract young professionals, families and downsizers into town centre living. New space for independent retailers, alongside other local amenities, will strengthen Solihull’s offer as a shopping destination and support a more resilient high street.
Holbeche Place will re-energise the Mell Square area in the heart of the town, whilst also introducing two new public spaces – Drury Gardens and Poplar Yard – to create a lively central destination for people to meet, relax and socialise. Each character area will have its own unique personality, stitched together as part of a green, open civic centre for all to enjoy.
Lisa Turley, Development Director at Muse, said: “We’ve worked in partnership with Solihull Council – and other town centre partners – to develop an ambitious and sustainable masterplan for Holbeche Place.
“It will be a vibrant neighbourhood, with space for independent retailers, homes for the whole community, and green public spaces.
“It is also a chance to re-imagine this part of Solihull town centre, in line with the Council’s long-term vision. We have prioritised a new evening economy, restaurants, bars, cultural events, and new spaces to meet and spend time.
“We will continue to work at pace to deliver the opportunity at Holbeche Place. The benefits of redevelopment will be significant, with 170 net new jobs during construction, and many more over the long-term.”
Cllr Karen Grinsell, Leader of Solihull Council, said: “This is a landmark moment for Solihull. We have a successful town centre, attracting visitors from across the region, but we recognise that – to stay successful – we must develop and change.
“Holbeche Place is a generational opportunity to curate a place which delivers the homes we need, exciting new shops, bars, and restaurants, and spaces which attract more people to visit Solihull.
“There will also be opportunities to ensure a wide range of benefits for the whole borough – from new jobs, and training opportunities, to attracting additional investment in the years ahead.
“We’re excited to continue working with Muse and look forward to beginning construction on phase one of the development as soon as possible.”
DEL BOSQUE
Independent consultancy and main contractor Del Bosque Group is celebrating a major milestone after completing five successful years of trading
Founded in 2021, Del Bosque launched its UK operations from a small office in Stourbridge and has since built a strong reputation for delivering high-quality, sustainable projects and property solutions nationwide.
From an initial team of three founding directors, the business has grown to more than 50 professionals operating across a wide range of sectors, including retail, hospitality, real estate, leisure, commercial, residential, healthcare and energy.
Now headquartered in Solihull, Del Bosque’s office has played a pivotal role in the delivery of several government property programmes, as well as a number of landmark developments across the UK.
The company was recently appointed by Perfect Circle on behalf of the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) to deliver its Estates Programme Assurance Service (EPAS).
Del Bosque Group will deliver the service with partners, providing a comprehensive, multi-disciplinary assurance process which will provide reduced risk and enhanced value for money for DWP. The company will work closely with service providers to strengthen accountability, support informed risk management, and embed continuous improvement.
Led by its founding directors - Sean Byrne, Bradley Greensmith and Keith Johns - the company has experienced significant and sustained growth while maintaining a flexible, hands-on approach and a strong focus on service excellence and community engagement.
Sean Byrne, CEO of Del Bosque Group, said:
“Above all, we are a people-first business, focused on long-term relationships, transparent collaboration and consistent delivery. We have a wider commitment to quality, innovation and positive community impact.
“We are incredibly proud to celebrate this milestone with our team and partners and we look forward to continuing to work closely with clients, government departments, public bodies and key service providers for many years to come.”
Alongside its consultancy and contracting work, Del Bosque actively supports several charities, including Lads Need Dads, The Cyrille Regis Legacy Trust and the Give a Duck Foundation - further underlining the company’s commitment to supporting local communities.
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BOOTS HEARINGCARE
Have you noticed a change in your hearing?
Whether you’re struggling to hear the TV or conversations, or are in pain, if you’ve noticed any changes to your hearing, pop in to visit us today. Affordable, quality hearing aids in Solihull. It couldn’t be simpler to visit us at our brand new store in Touchwood.
We’re located just off the High Street next to Starbucks. With plenty of amazing retail stores nearby, why not pop in to see us when you’re out grabbing some shopping? We believe that caring for your hearing health should be accessible to everyone. That’s why we offer the best quality services at affordable prices along with free hearing tests at all of our hearing centres.
MAD HATTERS
The Mad Hatters Children’s Charity, based in Solihull, is
dedicated to creating brighter days for children and families who need it most
Rooted in the local community, the charity focuses on supporting children with disabilities, additional needs, illnesses, and challenging life circumstances. By offering inclusive activities, memorable trips, and practical support, Mad Hatters aims to reduce isolation and bring joy to families who often face barriers to everyday experiences.
Being based in Solihull gives the charity a strong local foundation. The team understands the needs of families across the area and works closely with the community to provide meaningful opportunities for children to socialise, explore, and build confidence. Many families find it difficult to attend outings due to accessibility challenges, transport limitations, or the additional planning required when caring for a child with extra needs. Mad Hatters helps remove these barriers by organising welcoming, inclusive events that allow children and their families to take part without added stress.
One of the most significant steps forward for the charity has been the introduction of its minibus. More than just a vehicle, the Mad Hatters minibus represents independence and opportunity. It enables the charity to transport children safely and comfortably to a range of experiences, from days out at parks and seaside trips to activity centres and seasonal events. For many families, this support makes the difference between being able to attend or missing out entirely. The minibus has quickly become a vital resource, helping the charity extend its reach while keeping the focus on inclusion.
The success of the Solihull-based minibus has highlighted just how transformative accessible transport can be. Children who may never have had the chance to experience certain outings are now able to participate, make friends, and create lasting memories. Parents and carers also benefit, gaining reassurance and a sense of community by connecting with others who understand their journey. The positive impact has sparked an exciting vision for the future—expanding this model beyond Solihull and across the wider Midlands.
A clear and ambitious target would be to establish seven Mad Hatters minibuses across the Midlands. With Solihull as the central hub, additional minibuses positioned in key locations would allow the charity to support more families while maintaining strong local connections. Seven vehicles would provide the capacity to cover multiple areas, reduce travel times, and increase the number of trips and activities available. This would create a sustainable network that grows organically while staying true to the charity’s community-driven approach.
Having seven minibuses would also provide flexibility. Different areas could organise their own local outings while still being connected to the wider Mad Hatters network. Some minibuses could be used for sensory-friendly experiences, others for outdoor adventures, school holiday programmes, or community events. This would allow the charity to respond directly to the needs of families in each area, ensuring support is tailored and impactful.
In addition to their practical use, the minibuses would act as moving ambassadors for the charity. Each vehicle travelling across towns and communities would raise awareness of the work being done. Seeing the Mad Hatters branding out on the road encourages conversations, attracts volunteers, and helps build partnerships with local businesses and supporters. Increased visibility would strengthen fundraising efforts and help ensure the long-term sustainability of the charity’s work.
The vision of seven minibuses across the Midlands is about more than growth—it’s about extending opportunity. Starting from its base in Solihull, the Mad Hatters Children’s Charity has already demonstrated the difference one minibus can make. Expanding to seven would multiply that impact, allowing more children to enjoy experiences, more families to feel supported, and more communities to come together. With continued local backing, fundraising, and partnerships, this goal is both achievable and inspiring, ensuring that the magic of Mad Hatters continues to reach those who need it most.
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