A ten-storey student block has been approved in Birmingham, while another scheme was blocked—reigniting debate over whether the city is prioritising student developments over much-needed housing. Councillors warn of family homes being lost and question whether student demand is being overstated.
00:00The city's planning committee has signed off on another major student block despite concerns over the balance between student lets and homes for local residents.
00:12Lonsdale House is set to be demolished in its place a 10 storey tower with 198 student bedrooms.
00:19The decision has sparked questions over whether Birmingham's housing priorities are in the right place.
00:25Councillor Gareth Moore says we're not awash with homely students warning that too many valuable sites are being given over to developments the city may not need especially when families are being priced out or pushed out altogether.
00:39Councillor Martin Brooks agreed demand remains high near the University of Birmingham but pointed to a trend in the city centre where one bed flats are effectively serving as student digs in all but name.
00:52He argued we're building stock that suits investors more than it serves residents.
00:57The second scheme under discussion on Frederick Road was refused.
01:02Officers said no formal objections were raised but councillors felt the design didn't respect the area's heritage.
01:09The bigger concern is that planning decisions aren't aligning with the city's long term needs.
01:15While officers maintained student numbers are still growing, councillors, particularly in wards like Selly Oak, say their communities are being hollowed out.
01:24Family homes turned into HMOs while large blocks pop up nearby, changing the feel and function of entire neighbourhoods.
01:32This debate isn't really about students, it's about a planning system that's drifting off course and a city appearing to trade long term housing needs for short term gains.
01:44Thanks very much for running for allowing them to implement!
