Plans go in for city's 'green innovation corridor'

If approved, the work could begin on the site in 2027

The University of Wolverhampton and the city council have submitted a joint planning application to carry out work on the first phase of the new Green Innovation Corridor (GIC).

The collaboration will connect "key assets" at the university's Springfield Campus, Science Park, and the i54 business park, the organisations have said.

Following public consultation designs, a hybrid planning application has been put forward to the council for the redevelopment of four brownfield sites, collectively known as Six Mile Green, by the Science Park.

The project has already secured £27m capital funding from the government and has attained West Midlands Investment Zone status.

The application includes permission for ground remediation, site clearance, service infrastructure and enabling works and outline plans for new buildings covering about 20,000 sqm of mixed-use commercial floor space, the council said.

If the plans are approved, then West Midlands Investment Zone funding will be used to carry out preconstruction works by March 2027, offering developers sites ready for design and build construction.

The plans cover the development of four brownfield sites near the University of Wolverhampton's Science Park

The GIC is being created to focus on green construction, engineering, computing and cyber-security, the council has said, stating that the project would create more than 700 jobs by supporting new, green industries.

Councillor Chris Burden, cabinet member for city development, jobs and skills, said: "It is fitting that this critical planning application has been submitted in the middle of Wolverhampton Business Week, which this year is highlighting the importance of skills, growth and innovation in the city.

"The Green Innovation Corridor will drive the 'Green Industrial Revolution', building upon Wolverhampton's sustainable construction, green credentials and circular economy for transformation that will create quality jobs and training opportunities for local people."

Pete Cross, chief operating officer at the university, said the application marked "a significant step forward" would strengthen its existing hubs on the site.