Villa Park area could become world class cultural destination, says draft plan | OneFootball

Birmingham City Council has set out a vision for the Witton and Aston area around Villa Park to become a world class cultural destination, centred on the stadium and neighbouring Aston Hall and Park.

According to ExpressAndStar.com, the draft Local Plan maps how the authority intends to guide growth over the next 20 years, supporting jobs, housing and investment while targeting regeneration.

Planned actions include backing investment at Villa Park, with the North Stand being extended and The Warehouse recently opened, and protecting and enhancing Aston Hall and Park as key historic and cultural assets.

The council also proposes new homes on underused industrial land along Tame Road, upgrades to Witton local centre through public realm, green infrastructure and wayfinding, and the Witton Lane units and car park earmarked for mixed town centre uses including retail, community, culture and leisure.

The plan expects development proposals to improve the River Tame. It proposes upgrades at Witton Railway Station and other public transport to make the area more accessible.

Congestion on match and event days is acknowledged, with longer term interventions to create a people-focused environment that may include downgrading parts of the road network, pedestrian-priority streets and steps to curb pavement parking.

The plan says Witton Station is poorly lit, has narrow platforms and suffers overcrowding on matchdays, and that redevelopment would improve safety and the overall experience. It adds that better pedestrian links to Aston Station are needed, with detailed work ongoing to establish deliverable options.

Designating the vicinity a Growth Zone recognises Villa Park’s economic importance. The plan notes the club is committed to investing, with proposals to increase capacity and broaden activity at the site.

Cabinet members are due to discuss the draft on Tuesday, July 28.

Source: ExpressAndStar.com