The City Centre South regeneration project in Coventry, a major undertaking by The Hill Group, has marked a significant achievement with the first building now under construction. This development follows the completion of demolition across the site.
The commencement of building work was celebrated by Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, Councillor George Duggins, Leader of Coventry Council, and Councillor Lynnette Kelly, Coventry City Council's Cabinet Member for Jobs, Regeneration and Climate Change. They were joined by Andy Hill OBE, Founder and Chief Executive of The Hill Group, Stuart Bale, Regional Director, and Paul Loader, Director of Delivery & Aftercare at Legal & General.
This phase represents a crucial step in transforming Coventry city centre over the coming years. Mayor Richard Parker highlighted the project's potential to drive growth, create jobs, and deliver much-needed homes. He noted that the initial buildings will include 200 affordable homes, with a recently opened skills hub on site offering training and job opportunities to local residents.
Under an agreement with Legal & General, Hill is developing 145 homes for social rent and 55 for Shared Ownership as part of this first phase. These new residences aim to address local housing needs.
Andy Hill OBE expressed excitement at seeing the first building emerge, stating that local people can now witness tangible progress on the vision for this area of Coventry.
Paul Loader of Legal & General commented on the visible progress and the delivery of the first 200 affordable homes, supporting the wider regeneration and meeting local housing targets with energy-efficient properties.
The City Centre South project is set to deliver up to 1,575 new homes, alongside public spaces, retail, and commercial opportunities. The initial phase will provide 991 homes, 8,000 square metres of commercial space, and 17,000 square metres of public open space.
The development is also generating employment and training through initiatives like The Skills Centre, designed to equip local residents with construction industry qualifications.
Councillor Lynnette Kelly described the moment as a landmark for Coventry, with the site visibly taking shape and promising lasting benefits. Improvements to the local market are also anticipated.
Naeem Akhtar, cabinet member for housing and communities, emphasised that the rising building signifies the delivery of essential affordable homes, reinforcing the commitment to a city centre where diverse communities can thrive.
