A controversial plan to open a 14-bedroom supported housing block in the heart of Handsworth has been decisively rejected by Birmingham City Council following a fierce community backlash.
Community Outcry Halts Development
Fed-up residents living near Holliday Road launched a powerful campaign against the proposal from Spring Housing Association, which would have converted a former hostel just a stone's throw from Soho Road. The scheme attracted nearly 70 formal complaints from householders, businesses, and neighbourhood forums who expressed feeling treated as a 'dumping ground' for such accommodations.
One particularly pointed objection captured the mood, asking planners: 'Why don’t you take them to Sutton Coldfield?' Another resident stated bluntly: 'It’s a disgrace what you have done to Handsworth. We don't want any more HMO in Handsworth they need to close down most of them.'
Serious Concerns About Safety and Legacy
Objections highlighted multiple concerns about the potential impact on the area. Residents reported witnessing drug-related activity and expressed fears for children's safety. One complaint read: 'Young children and women, in particular, are feeling increasingly unsafe on our streets.'
The community also raised concerns about Handsworth's rich cultural and historical legacy being eroded. One objector argued: 'The area is being treated as a dumping ground, while other parts of the city are preserved as "leafy" and "safe" environments for more privileged populations. We deserve better.'
Local campaigner Shuranjeet Singh, who opposed the plan, explained: 'When this application was submitted residents were scared and concerned, especially because the large park opposite the property is a hub for antisocial behaviour and drug taking.'
Council Rejection and Community Relief
Birmingham City Council refused the application on 11th November 2025, citing two key reasons. The planning officer's report stated the development would create 'unsatisfactory living accommodation' through the provision of cramped living units without adequate communal space. Additionally, the council raised concerns about flood risk potentially endangering future occupiers.
Spring Housing Association had argued the accommodation was intended to provide 'safe and secure accommodation with wrap-around support' as 'step down' accommodation for residents moving from shared accommodation elsewhere in the city.
Independent Councillor Chaman Lal welcomed the decision, calling it 'great news and a huge relief for the local residents who are already suffering from the problems caused by too many HMOs and the exempt properties in the Handsworth area.'
Campaigner Shuranjeet Singh added: 'Now, residents are relieved because it means there less risk of crime, disruption and chaos on the road. We have many bad HMO providers in Handsworth - so if you’re a bad provider then do not open a HMO here or anywhere.'
