Xylia Legonas was nearing the completion of her mortgage and had recently refurbished her home after a fire when she was informed about the Druids Heath regeneration project in 2023. She expressed concern upon learning that her house would be demolished as part of a larger plan to replace most of the Druids Heath housing estate, located on the outskirts of Birmingham.
Councillors have approved plans to demolish 1,800 existing homes to construct 3,500 new residences, with only 400 of these designated as affordable housing. This represents a significant reduction from the current number of homes. During a planning committee meeting, many local residents voiced their concerns, highlighting the emotional impact of losing their homes.
The planning committee’s decision was divided, ultimately passing by a narrow margin of one vote. Although the council states that it aims to create 1,785 affordable homes through a partnership with a developer, residents worry that this commitment lacks firm guarantees and may not materialize.
Local residents have been offered market value plus 10% for their homes, but many are uncertain about their future. Corin Ennis mentioned that the compensation would not be sufficient to purchase similar housing in Birmingham. Shared ownership options were presented to homeowners wishing to return, but many prefer outright ownership and have doubts about the council’s assurances.
Concerns regarding the adequacy of consultations and the scope of the project persist among residents. Some believe that only certain properties require demolition, suggesting a lack of comprehensive investment in the area over the years. Residents are also questioning the meaning of “affordable” housing in the context of this development, particularly in light of governmental changes affecting housing policies.
The situation has led to fears about the future of the community, with voices from Druids Heath urging for clarity over what regeneration will genuinely entail.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/nov/13/are-you-building-communities-or-just-houses-the-human-cost-of-birmingham-councils-plans-for-druids-heath-estate