The Site
Bellway’s Site lies within the existing settlement of Wythall, on land currently used as pastureland. It is bounded by Houndsfield Lane to the north, Lea Green Lane to the east, Alcester Road to the west and Gorsey Lane to the south.
The Site is approximately 50 hectares in size and is comprised of open agricultural fields.
A Sustainable Location
The Site’s strategic location benefits from close proximity to local services, facilities and transport connections. Wythall Train Station is just 300 metres from the south-eastern boundary, providing regular connections to Tyseley, Henley-in-Arden, Stratford-upon-Avon and Birmingham, ideal for commuting and leisure.
By road, the Site is within easy reach of the M42 and the wider strategic road network and will benefit from access directly onto the Alcester Road, a key artery into the Birmingham conurbation. Other vehicle access points will be provided via new junctions on Houndsfield Lane, Alcester Road and Lea Green Lane.
Public Rights of Way
The development will retain and improve three existing public rights of way in the Site: one through Harmony Wood, running south to north, linking Wythall to Drakes Cross and Hollywood (Route 568(B)); a second leading north west from Alcester Road towards Houndsfield Lane (Route 596(C)); and a third which runs for 10-15m to connect the two longer footpaths to Houndsfield Lane (567(B)). These will create welcoming routes into green spaces for both new and existing residents.
To encourage an active and outdoor lifestyle the Site will also include nature trails along the brook and in the valley. These trails will provide a safe space for the public to explore the neighbourhood and appreciate the area’s natural beauty and wildlife.
Site Features and Opportunities
The Site benefits from a number of natural landscape features such as neighbouring woodland, thickets, coppices and hedgerows and a brook running west to east throughout the Site.
These natural features provide a clear opportunity to develop distinct character areas within the development and offer the opportunity to enhance existing habitats, wildlife corridors and green spaces to provide a welcoming neighbourhood integrated into the existing landscape. The development will provide at least 10% biodiversity net gain in line with legislation.
At present, a high voltage electricity line with pylons runs across the Site from west to east, and therefore two illustrative masterplans have been presented considering suitable scenarios.
