The project director of the £2.2 billion Ladywood Regeneration scheme in Birmingham has departed the authority after only four months in the role.
The ambitious project aims to replace 2,000 existing homes with 7,000 new properties as part of a regeneration effort.
Last July, some residents faced difficulty attending a public meeting due to limited venue capacity, where discussions about potential home demolitions were underway.
David Stevenson, the former project director, missed a meeting with residents earlier this month, though the council reaffirmed its commitment to the project.
Birmingham City Council has now appointed a new project director, signaling continuity for the regeneration initiative.
While specific circumstances surrounding the appointment remain undisclosed, the council asserts its dedication to the Ladywood Regeneration scheme.
Residents express skepticism toward both the council and developers, citing a lack of effort to earn their trust.
The council pledges to negotiate with homeowners affected by the scheme, offering compensation packages as part of the process.
‘Fight and stay’
Anne-Marie Lodge, aged 52 and a resident of the estate, expressed reluctance about the prospect of moving due to the regeneration project.
She emphasized her desire to remain part of the community where she has lived for 13 years, preferring to stay and continue her life there rather than starting anew elsewhere.
In response to residents’ concerns, the council outlined a compensation package designed to mitigate the impact of relocation. This package includes a home loss payment and a disturbance payment, which encompasses various expenses such as removal costs, special adaptations, as well as legal and surveyors’ fees.