Development is complete at a new scheme in Birmingham suburb Kings Heath as the workmen move out and the first tenants complete their fit out programme and start trading. Developer Redleaf agreed a deal with Midlands Co-operative last year to open a convenience food store on the site, which is located on Vicarage Road.
The established parade of shops on Vicarage Road is joined by the new Co-operative store as well as a second retail unit. The second, smaller unit of 1,000 sq ft is still available and the scheme also comprises seven apartments which have also been released onto the market.
Paul Bishton, director of Redleaf, said: “We have had very positive feedback from the surrounding community while construction has been under way, excited that an empty and unloved site will be in use again and providing a valuable amenity to local people.
“Our intention has been to support and improve the parade of shops on Vicarage Road, to provide better amenities and support the regeneration of Kings Heath as a whole. We are speaking with a number of potential occupiers about the second retail unit and hope to announce another occupier shortly.”
The site, which was originally a car showroom, was empty and had been left to fall into disrepair over the past five years. Following the £2m development, Redleaf secured the deal with Midlands Co-operative and the store has now opened following a fit-out programme. The second unit also has planning for consent for A1/ A2/ A5 uses.
Matthew Garton, New Store Operations Manager, said: “We’re pleased to be a part of this improvement within Kings Heath and bring a modern convenience food store, offering a wide range of products to the local community. Our colleagues at the new Kings Heath store look forward to welcoming new customers, and are excited to work with the local community.”
Kate Smart, town centre manager at Kings Heath Business Improvement District (BID), added: “Kings Heath is a thriving neighbourhood and in recent years it has benefitted from high levels of investment to improve it for residents and visitors and that they are provided with a safe, clean, vibrant environment to enjoy, work and live in.
“The re-use and development of empty or derelict sites add significant value to Kings Heath and demonstrate that Kings Heath is a desired retail destination.”
The BID has invested in excess £600,000 into the area over the past five years, since the launching; most significantly, it has overseen the successful redevelopment of Kings Heath Village Square.