Aston Advanced Manufacturing Hub Development Framework
The Advanced Manufacturing Hub (AMH) is one of six economic zones in Birmingham, and falls within the Aston Regional Investment Site (RIS) as identified within the Aston, Newtown and Lozells Area Action Plan. The site has been selected to accommodate growth in the advanced manufacturing sector, and provide opportunities for the growing automotive supply chain. It is well placed for this due to its size of 20 hectares and accessibility next to the motorway network and M6 at Spaghetti Junction.
To expand on the Area Action Plan policy, a development framework has been prepared for this area. It highlights the importance of high quality design and place making to create an attractive business environment for both new businesses and the wider community. The AMH Development Framework was adopted in July 2016, following a period of public consultation.
The AMH Development Framework sits alongside the adopted Area Action Plan, and the AMH Local Development Order (adopted by the council in January 2014 granting simplified planning permission for certain uses on key sites in order to stimulate new investment, economic growth and job creation). It shows how the LDO requirements can be applied, and gives guidance for areas not covered by the LDO, including sites next to sensitive boundaries.
The AMH is a major success story for Birmingham. The majority of the first phase is underway and the first occupier (Hydraforce) is operational. The new 11,000 square metres facility built by Hydraforce will create and safeguard 500 jobs. Two further developments are under construction, due for completion in early 2017.
The council, and its partner the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) are committed to bringing new development forward. A significant amount of public sector investment towards site assembly and access improvements has already taken place.
