Shabana has written to the Leader of Birmingham City Council, Councillor John Cotton, regarding proposals to regenerate Ladywood.

Plans released last month announced a development partner for the project, which will see the wholesale redevelopment of the neighbourhood.

Residents have been in touch with Shabana to relay their concerns about the plans.

In her letter to the Leader, Shabana welcomed the news of inward investment, but has asked for assurances that the existing community won’t be displaced.

You can read the letter in full below.

Letter to the Leader

Dear John

I am writing following news that a development partner has been secured for the regeneration of the Ladywood estate in my constituency.

Nearly four years ago, I wrote to the former leader of Birmingham City Council, Councillor Ian Ward, regarding the regeneration proposals, which I enclose for your review. In that letter I offered my support in principle, but raised concerns about how the proposals might change the character of the existing community in Ladywood.

I welcome news the £2.2bn programme will bring forward two new public parks, improved public transport, and additional community facilities.

However, it is crucial that the right balance is struck between decent and affordable homes for families, against the proliferation of small privately-rented one or two bedroom flats that serve transient communities. I want to see families put their roots down in our community and contribute to our civic life.

I would be grateful if you could answer the following:

• What percentage of new homes in the Ladywood Estate regeneration scheme will be family homes?
• Why is the council not meeting its own targets for social housing or affordable rents as part of the scheme?
• What assessment has been made regarding the displacement of the existing community as part of the 20-year scheme?

I will continue to back the regeneration agenda of the council provided it is not a backdoor for mass gentrification of Birmingham Ladywood. I trust that our shared Labour values will ensure that the planned regeneration puts residents first.

Shabana Mahmood MP

Birmingham Ladywood