Labour MP Liam Byrne has called on Solihull Council to strengthen protections for Castle Bromwich after a local survey found overwhelming support for preserving the area’s historic character.
The Birmingham Hodge Hill and Solihull North MP said 99% of respondents wanted the historic character of Castle Bromwich protected, while 87% backed a stronger Conservation Area.
Writing on X, Byrne said:
“Castle Bromwich residents spoke. I listened.”
He added:
“99% want the historic character protected. 87% back a stronger Conservation Area.”
Byrne said he has now written to Solihull Council asking it to act on the findings, beginning with the creation of a Neighbourhood Plan.
“I’ve written to Solihull Council to make it happen - starting with a Neighbourhood Plan.”
The move is intended to give residents a stronger voice over future development and help ensure that new proposals respect the character and heritage of the area.
Neighbourhood Plans allow communities to shape planning priorities locally, including where development should take place and how the distinctive character of an area should be protected.
Byrne thanked residents who took part in the survey and said the strength of the response showed clear local backing for stronger safeguards.
The intervention puts pressure on Solihull Council to respond to the survey and consider how planning and conservation protections could be strengthened in Castle Bromwich.
For Byrne, the message is that future development should reflect the wishes of local residents while protecting the historic identity of the community.
