Former pub's demolition marks key milestone in Birmingham estate regeneration » Housing » 24dash.com

Birmingham City Council purchased the Star Members Club (formerly Lyndhurst public house) on Sutton Road, Erdington earlier this year after it had stood empty for three years. This week it is being demolished.

This represents another key milestone in the regeneration of the Lyndhurst Estate and surrounding areas of Erdington.

The council has already demolished nearly 300 obsolete and unpopular homes on the estate and further demolition is planned for two large tower blocks on the estate as it  gears up for one of the largest housing regeneration schemes of recent years.

In July, the council secured £100 million Housing PFI credits for the regeneration of the area. The council is one of just 10 local authorities, out of 24 councils that submitted bids, to have been awarded a place on the 6th round of Housing PFI scheme by the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA).

The redevelopment scheme will deliver up to 600 new homes, including new council housing and homes for shared ownership and outright sale. A new neighbourhood park with play facilities is also planned, alongside youth centres and a new health centre. Improved access to rail network and public transport will also be provided.

Training and employment opportunities will be created as part of the Modern Apprenticeships programme to help young people secure careers in construction as part of the PFI proposals.

The PFI scheme will also refurbish over 600 council homes, to a level over and above the Decent Homes standard required by 2010, these will include new kitchens and bathrooms and environmental works.

Councillor John Lines, Cabinet Member for Housing, said, "The demolition of the Star Members club is another boost for residents on the estate and demonstrates  the Council's commitment to the regeneration of the Lyndhurst estate and surrounding areas of Erdington. This area has long been recognised as a priority for the Council and I'm delighted with this latest step to transform the Lyndhurst estate into a safe high quality neighbourhood for residents."

The council will be working closely with Homes and Communities Agency on these proposals over the coming months.