A £172.8m funding boost for Smithfield Birmingham is set to accelerate one of Europe’s largest urban regeneration projects.

Approved by the Enterprise Zone Partnership Board and Birmingham City Council’s Cabinet, this funding will make possible the transformation of the city centre, including the relocation of the iconic Bull Ring Markets, more than 3,000 new homes, and a mix of cultural, leisure, and business spaces.

The scheme, projected to create 9,000 jobs during construction and another 10,000 once complete, is now financially secure.

This funding is drawn from the business rate income generated by the 39 sites within the Enterprise Zone, a program that will continue to fuel the city’s regeneration efforts until 2045/46.

Lendlease, the lead developer, will proceed with finalising designs for the first phase, which includes the new markets, residential and commercial spaces, as well as key public areas like Manor Square and Market Square. Work will also begin on pre-commencement planning and site preparations.

Cllr Sharon Thompson, deputy leader and cabinet member for economy and skills said: “This £1.9 billion development will transform the area, creating a vibrant landmark in the heart of Birmingham—that will elevate the city’s economic growth and enhance its international reputation. Smithfield is the largest single city centre development site in the UK, and is a key strand of our plans to transform the city centre.

“Approval of this grant funding is a significant milestone that will kick start the delivery of 3,000 homes for Birmingham, create 9,000 jobs, and will make Birmingham’s city centre an even more exciting and lively place for people to live and work.”

Colin Murphy, portfolio development director & project lead Smithfield (Birmingham) at Lendlease, said: “This funding brings added momentum for the next phase of Smithfield and the long-term regeneration of Birmingham city centre. It’s a vote of confidence in the city’s future and a clear signal that delivery of this once in a generation scheme is on its way.”

Construction is slated to begin in early 2026, with the development set to unfold in four phases over the next decade.

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