The new detailed design code for the redevelopment of the Birmingham Road Site, a key gateway to the city centre, has been approved.
This code has been developed following a rigorous two-year consultation period with local residents, businesses, and community groups, reflecting the commitment to preserving the unique heritage and high standards of construction in Lichfield city centre.
The design code is the result of comprehensive input gathered from over 5,747 online surveys, more than 300 participants at public events, and numerous feedback sessions at the Council House drop-in centre.
Based on feedback from people across the district of all ages, the code stipulates strict guidelines to ensure that all new developments complement the city's heritage and architectural tradition. Key elements of the code include requirements on building scale, architectural style, material use, and the incorporation of heritage-compatible features. The code differentiates between mandatory "must" standards and the advisable "should" guidelines to provide clarity and flexibility while ensuring quality and consistency in development.
Councillor Alex Farrell, Cabinet Member for Housing and Local Plan, emphasised the collaborative nature of the design code, stating,
"The Birmingham Road Site Design Code is not merely a set of rules but a blueprint co-created with residents to ensure any new development enhances our historic city centre and will stand as proud testament to robust design principles as preferred by our communities.
“The clear message from residents was that the architectural design adopted for the Birmingham Road Site must respect Lichfield’s distinct and high-quality buildings and must use materials and features in keeping with its heritage. As we start to move into the design and development phases of the site it is vital that we have a code that can be used to determine the design and style of buildings”
The principles gathered through the engagement have formed the basis for the final design code. It covers architectural style, building scale, height and density of buildings, materials, brickwork, roofs, windows and other elements such as street design, lighting and signage.
This design code promises to guide the transformation of the Birmingham Road Site into a vibrant, aesthetically pleasing new part of our city while paying homage to Lichfield’s storied past and ensuring high-quality urban design.