Lench’s Close: Public Consultation

We held the first of two public consultations on our proposed developments as we head towards a full planning application. Our proposal seeks to create a strong connection with the existing community at Lench’s Close. It aims to provide architecture and landscape which: meets the needs of an everchanging society; and simultaneously responds to the growing numbers of Birmingham’s future generation of older people.

We focused on 3 key principles.

Environmental: The building is small-scale and designed with energy efficiency using sustainable building materials; the landscape will enhance the biodiversity and provide wildlife friendly landscaping whilst preserving the existing trees and planting.

Social: A strong sense of community is promoted by offering shared spaces which encourages interaction between residents; it helps combat social isolation and supports mental health and wellbeing. The supportive environment allows for independence whilst ensuring a neighbourly atmosphere.

Economic: Charitable trusts such at Lench’s Trust helps to fund the Almshouses, the oldest form of affordable/social housing, this reduces the impact it has on public housing systems. Due to residents having a long-term occupancy the model offers stable and secure housing for residents. Almshouses embody a sustainable model of living by integrating environmental responsibility, community cohesion, and financial accessibility. They demonstrate how traditional housing solutions (we are in our 500th year!) can meet modern sustainability goals while preserving dignity and care for people that need it most.

You never quite know how public consultations will go, but we are really pleased with the response on our design, and approach to our proposals, we are aiming for a full planning submission in the coming weeks.

Thank you to our friends at Pegasus Group for their work in bringing this to life, as ever the model was a show stoper.

In addition to the public consultation event, we welcome comments to be submitted via the below email address, if attendance is not possible.

lenchsclose@pegasusgroup.co.uk

We would appreciate if you could submit any comments you may have on the proposals by: Friday 6th June 2025. Any information provided will only be used for consultation purposes and to inform any future planning application proposals and will not be shared with any third parties.