I couldn't find a thread on this, so I started one.
Planning App no. C/06439/07/FUL

I noticed that the Oaklands recreation ground is starting to be marked out, so I had a look at the plans, viola, it is the new dual carriageway that is to be built first, and is being marked out. I didn't realise how major the work was going to be.

Current Site Plan
http://img172.imageshack.us/img172/5863/swandevelopmentpreok7.jpg

Redevelopment Site Plan
http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/6173/swandevelopment1ei1.jpg

http://img151.imageshack.us/img151/5395/swandevelopment3cg8.jpg

http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/9431/swandevelopment4jy4.jpg

Main Entrance - Church Road (opposite carpark)
http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/7651/swandevelopment5mainentkq9.jpg

Non-food Entrance - Opposite Equipoint (under Bakeman House).
http://img293.imageshack.us/img293/1624/swandevelopment6nonfoodgh6.jpg

Secondary Entrance - Coventry Road
http://img176.imageshack.us/img176/2128/swandevelopment7secondabn6.jpg

Oh my word... I thought they were just widening the road, not fully realigning it! That surface car park is disgusting - definitely going to be come a race track some time after 11pm :|. The work to the Swan Centre is definitely an improvement but it all looks cheap and tacky. The refurb of Bakeman House looks quite Topcliffe House-esque too.

I have to say, I am totally shocked at how major this is. I can see why Tesco had to pay such huge S106 payments! Church Road will never be the same again. I'll cherish the memories of riding my bike with my mates up from the Yew Tree and grabbing some cheap crap in the market before trying to do some [un]impressive air on the mounds of grass outside... Yeah.

Thanks for starting the thread though. I think UV is from Yardley so maybe he could give us a couple of updates and I seem to remember another forumer (maybe Ginger Tosser) being from the area too...

wow, would have looked a lot better if the parking was underground

(maybe Ginger Tosser) being from the area too...

Yep, guilty. I've been meaning to visit the centre for a while. Just need to find my crash helmet and gun.

I grew up in Sheldon and had a load a mates in Yardley. I've trawled up and down Church Road on my bike loads - there used to be a record shop along there.

That is a major change but it does need it!

Pretty major stuff, I didn't realise it was so huge.

Been away for a week so not seen them marking out the new road, I'll try and get some pictures soon of the site as it is now, and hopefully keep updating, Bakeman House looks a monster now it's covered up.

Good to see they are getting rid of the old petrol station as well. I think that briefly became a used car dealership. I remember them doing the de-commissioning work to the petrol station - it's the only time I've ever seen that happen. Having a closer look at the plans, I am also happy to see the area in front of the terraced houses on the east side of Church Road getting a nice new frontage. They look terrible at the moment, especially as there is no proper parking for them. It's just a shame that they'll get a view of a great big car park!

Does anyone remember the houses on the road coming off the west side of Church Road, which now goes off into the park?

Driving from the airport today I noticed that the residential tower block has begun its refurb, all white like the park central blocks...love the primary colours, very Mondrian

I remember them, the roads blocked off now but somehow the locals get the cars down there to park.

It'll be nice to see this moving at last, all that's been done in the last year or so is the knocking down the few houses adjacent to the centre, I'm expecting a bit of chaos during works though.

horrible.

Not sure, but I think they are starting to peel the wrapping of Bakeman House, as the top 2 floor were visible, very white.

Just to mention also, across the Swan Island, the old Staples/B&Q/Tram Depot is to become a Farmfoods, they have kept the original structure of the tram depot though thankfully, not that you could see it anyway, and wont beable to see it now, lol.

Theres a load of new fence posts in the current wooded/overgrown area, I guess they'll be clearing this soon.

Must get some shots.

Staples has shut down? Crap, I was going to go there tomorrow! Good to know I wasn't about to waste a journey...

Staples has shut down? Crap, I was going to go there tomorrow! Good to know I wasn't about to waste a journey...

Staples shut down last year Erebus, it was derilict for some time.

Theres a load of new fence posts in the current wooded/overgrown area, I guess they'll be clearing this soon.

Yep, that is why I started this thread, it is the outline of the new dual carridge way, which will be built before anything else.

why the hell do they need 718 car park spaces?

in case anyone's interested here's' the design of the tesco store which is opening at the fox and goose

N/04161/08/RES

why are we building so many more supermarkets theres so many has it is

why the hell do they need 718 car park spaces?

in case anyone's interested here's' the design of the tesco store which is opening at the fox and goose

N/04161/08/RES

N/04147/05/OUT

why are we building so many more supermarkets theres so many has it is

If I remember rightly, there is only one supermarket in Yardley and that is the Co-op, and that I don't think that's much of a size. There was a Kwik Save but I don't know what's happened to that in the wake of Kwik Save calling in the administrators. There's an Asda supermarket off on the outskirts of Small Heath where it meets Tyseley. I think this is well placed and all the complaints about it taking all the business off the Kwik Save seem pointless now. Shame it has to be a Tesco though...

theres already a tesco's near yardly as soon to be opening aldi, and a co-op there too

^^ Very true, I think this will be a major success, the area is desperate for a supermarket, Asda in Small Heath or Morrisons in Castle Brom are the two nearest, I'd have prefered Sainsburys to have won the battle though. Wonder if the Tesco down the road in Sheldon will close now, it's a nightmare of a store with a car park way too small and traffic queing back onto the Cov Rd!

A quick update from this morning, didn't get time to get the wooden posts or inside of the old tram depot so I'll try and get back this week.

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010906.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010907.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010910.jpg

The depressing view from the ground:ohno:

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010911.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010912.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010914.jpg

These are the other side from a few months ago

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010359.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010360.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010361.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010362.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010364.jpg

And Bakeman House revealing herself

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010908.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010909.jpg

Thanks for the pics! Looks so depressing there now! Anything here would be a major improvement.

The covers have come off part of the way down Bakeman House and it now has blue lights around the top. Wonder if the bulbs will last longer than the sentinels ones :p

Not the best of pictures I was in the car as it was chucking it down

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010930.jpg


http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1010931.jpg

very bold....Shame they never thought of that for the Civic Close blocks

Decided Sunday morning was the best time to head towards The Swan.

A selection of images......

http://www.scphoto.co.uk/pages/galleries/projects/pictures/theswan/theswan_2.jpg

http://www.scphoto.co.uk/pages/galleries/projects/pictures/theswan/theswan_5.jpg

http://www.scphoto.co.uk/pages/galleries/projects/pictures/theswan/theswan_11.jpg

http://www.scphoto.co.uk/pages/galleries/projects/pictures/theswan/theswan_12.jpg

http://www.scphoto.co.uk/pages/galleries/projects/pictures/theswan/theswan_15.jpg

http://www.scphoto.co.uk/pages/galleries/projects/pictures/theswan/theswan_24.jpg

More images on my website (http://www.scphoto.co.uk/pages/galleries/projects/theswan.html)

Beautiful pictures there! I especially like the second from last picture, probably because of its depth but they are all great. It's about time I invested in a wide-angle lens!

Ta, was using my 17-40mm F4 L lens, on a tripod for that shot was .8 second at f/13.

Was playing with directional flash for the security camera. Flash off camera and manually zoomed so the light is more concentrated.

Was playing with directional flash for the security camera. Flash off camera and manually zoomed so the light is more concentrated.

I have never thought of doing that. I'm definitely going to try it though! Cheers!

It might be easier using a Snoot (http://strobist.blogspot.com/2006/03/lighting-101-cereal-box-snoots-and.html) though. It would give you a more defined edge

Took some photos of the lighting scheme on Bakeman House, didn't realise there were already some photos of it, but here are some from last night.

The lighting scheme is shockingly bright, but it makes the Swan look interesting for a change. :D

http://img404.imageshack.us/img404/6615/0511081742je4.jpg

http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/7316/0511081743sn7.jpg

http://img407.imageshack.us/img407/9087/0511081744fl2.jpg

http://img262.imageshack.us/img262/604/0511081745ve7.jpg

Good to see they are getting rid of the old petrol station as well. I think that briefly became a used car dealership. I remember them doing the de-commissioning work to the petrol station - it's the only time I've ever seen that happen. Having a closer look at the plans, I am also happy to see the area in front of the terraced houses on the east side of Church Road getting a nice new frontage. They look terrible at the moment, especially as there is no proper parking for them. It's just a shame that they'll get a view of a great big car park!

Does anyone remember the houses on the road coming off the west side of Church Road, which now goes off into the park? I remember the road actually it was a cul-de-sac named The Causway there was a shop on the corner nearest the Swan island there was a Methodist Chapel on the other corner with grounds that went as far as the entrance to Oaklands Rec, there were houses both sides and at the end was The Birmingham Post & Mail sports ground which was fenced off from The Oaklands Rec. charlesed.

I remember the road actually it was a cul-de-sac named The Causway there was a shop on the corner nearest the Swan island there was a Methodist Chapel on the other corner with grounds that went as far as the entrance to Oaklands Rec, there were houses both sides and at the end was The Birmingham Post & Mail sports ground which was fenced off from The Oaklands Rec. charlesed.

Welcome to the forum charlesed! :hi:

Whilst I vaguely remember a shop, I have no recollection of the chapel! Was there any graves there? I always wanted it to be haunted in some way! :tongue2:

Thanks for the info there! :)

Welcome to the forum charlesed! :hi:

Whilst I vaguely remember a shop, I have no recollection of the chapel! Was there any graves there? I always wanted it to be haunted in some way! :tongue2:

Thanks for the info there! :)

Thanks for the welcome.

The shop was owned by Welsh International Don Dearson of Birmingham City.

There weren't any graves, the caretaker during the war dug up the grounds because it was ornamental and grew vegetables which he sold or gave away.

This is a picture of Colliers corner, where the buses used to clock in, the corner where Farmfoods is now.

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/425/swantrollycf2.jpg

I can't recall if I posted the images I took of The Causeway.....

http://www.scphoto.co.uk/pages/galleries/projects/pictures/theswan/theswan_18.jpg

http://www.scphoto.co.uk/pages/galleries/projects/pictures/theswan/theswan_22.jpg

So we demolish a car park to build another car park.

Theres a Co-op just up the road, Acocks Green down the rd opposite, Asda one way, another Tescos down at Sheldon.

And the residents loose their underground carpark, think they'll have there own bit set aside/gated off on the new one.

The residents will have their own car park, have not found out where it will be yet. Len.

The carparking will be outside the residents houses if you look at the plan.

Was referring to the residents of the flats

Was referring to the residents of the flats

Ah, sorry, misunderstood, the Bakeman house residents will still have basement parking looking at this:

http://www.birmingham.gov.uk/PSR/control/getrelateddocument?txt_PSR_Application_Number=C%2F06439%2F07%2FFUL&OBJECT_ID=0901487a8061393c&DOCUMENT_TYPE=Plans+%26+Drawings&DOCUMENT_SUBTYPE=Application+Plans&DOCUMENT_NAME=Basement+plans+as+proposed+9990+P303

Looks like the current basement is actually going to be extended and turned into resident and staff carparking.

hello gang

there was a story in Tuesdays Evening Mail saying the bulldozors are moving in. Anyone pass by "the Ugly Duckling" recently? Is it demolished? Anyone take any photos?

I went past today, didn't seem to be anything going on.

Are they going to re-route the road through the park before they start on the new shops?

Blimey mahill, how long has it been? We must be talking years! :happy: Nice to know you're still live and kicking!

I went past today, didn't seem to be anything going on.

Are they going to re-route the road through the park before they start on the new shops?

Yes, a new duel carriage way, but they will probably start demolishing part of the swan centre away from the road at the same time.

At least work is getting going on the new dual carriageway - how many years has it been since this was first mooted? I reckon it's been at least 7.

http://www.birminghammail.net/news/top-stories/2009/03/24/bulldozers-move-in-at-site-of-eyesore-swan-shopping-centre-97319-23215881/

"A CITY suburb’s skyline will change forever when Yardley’s ugly duckling Swan Centre is razed to the ground.

Bulldozers are finally poised to begin tearing down the eyesore to make way for a £10 million precinct of shops and a Tesco superstore.

Since the 60s, visitors arriving in Birmingham along the A45 Coventry Road have been greeted by the concrete-clad monstrosity.

But workmen have moved on site and will demolish the market hall and multi-storey car park within days."

was the story, sounds like they haven't started bulldozing yet.

And it doesn't exactly do anything to the skyline anyway - it's Bakeman House and Equipment that are the skyline! Typical Birmingham Mail. :|

Noticed today that work finally seems to have started, it was all going on behind the car park so it was difficult to see exactly what was happening, but there was lots of noise and dust :)

Demolition has begun. The contractors aim to get demolition completed by August. Construction of the new portion of Church Road is due to start in July. :)

How did you find that out Erebus?

There's a nice editor on Wikipedia who seems to be a local. He attends the local meetings and updates on this and edits the Swan Shopping Centre article accordingly - it's just a shame that he doesn't against the rules of Wikipedia. :|

Usually the updates are pretty much no-news but this news has come from the most recent update. :)

Half the car park has now gone :banana:

Will try and grab a picture in the morning.

End of an era. :(

Start of a new one. :)

Half the car park has now gone

I noticed that the other day when I drove past. Glad I got my pictures when I did.

Hi Guys,
Soooooo good to see people interested in what is happening in the local area, the redevelopment of the swan is long overdue, The swan indoor market reminds me of being dragged around by my mom and my aunts looking at tat and then having a panda pop in the cafe at the back, beside the meat and fish counters!! :lol:
Now I live opposite and the redevelopment interests me from a resident point of view, over the past two years the swans locations has become a Mecca for crime and drugs, so It’s really time for a change.
Blakeman house is looking respectable (For a block of flats!) Shame about the blue light on the top being so bright it could assist in the landing of planes! (I wonder if you can actually identify it when coming in too land at Birmingham Airport.) The council say it’s to create a landmark at the Swan Island! It’s grown on me, and the way it bathes my bathroom in a blue glow at night is saving me on electricity.lol :lol:
The pictures are AMAZING,,, please continue to take them throughout the development, Something as Iconic as the Swan should be documented in pictures if not for the reminiscence of our childhoods but also as a reference for future generations.
There is only the Coventry road frontage still standing but that is coming down in the next week. Things are starting to look better all ready, hopefully with the new Tesco and the 25 shops that will occupy the centre, people will be more encouraged to take up residency in the fantastic office spaces available in the surrounding buildings.
Any one got any ideas as to what shops will be going in?
As for the surrounding areas!!!
Shame about the Farmfoods store on the corner, in the old B&Q, then STAPLES location (Used to be the main tram depot in the early 1900’s I think) The signage is nothing but discreet and looks a bit crappy.
Anyone know what’s happening with the New Inn pub?:cheers: I heard that it may be making way for an apartment block? What is the history of this plot of land? I heard once that It was a pub before but got burned down?
Anyway enough from me,, I am soo glad to have found this thread. It needs to get out to more people, as most people in the south Yardley area wants to find out what happening..
KEEP IT GOING KIDS!!!

:wave: http://www.bbc.co.uk/radioassets/photos/2008/3/3/37508_2.jpg

Update:

Slight delay with the road due to an issue of a CPO. Hearing will take place in July, lasting about 3 weeks.

Hmm I'm also fascinated and wondering what's going to happen with that spot of land too. If your on the number 11 bus then sit at the top then you can see over the blue boards and see the big mess they've made :lol: the're getting there I suppose.

Hi Everyone,

Well i live right behind The Swan and i can assure you the development is well and truelly in full throttle!! Every morning at 7.30 those massive JCB's come trundling past my back garden shaking the whole house! haha.

The demolition is coming along nicely and everything up to the bingo hall has now been taken down. I'm away for te weekend but i'm sure by the time i get back alot more will have disppeared.

I will try and get a few pics up next week sometime. It's good to see a thread regarding Thw Swan!!

The mound of rubble that was the Swan Centre

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1020877.jpg


http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1020876.jpg

Thanks for the update UV .

The Swan Centre never looked so good. I remember being dragged around the Swan Market as a kid, which seamed to be everyday during the summer holidays:nuts: I don't understand why it has been left to rot for so long as it used to be such a vibrant shopping centre!

Looks better already! :pepper:

so, what do we gain, in place of the loss of parkland?

or will it be the usual bit of pretty pavement!

There is more than enough parkland around there, what we need is more density.....

Yeah, the amount of parkland lost is really insignificant. And the advantages for the area really do outweigh the loss of an unloved part of the park anyway.

And don't forget, Tesco have given £4 million to the Friends of the Oaklands (the local park) to reforest certain parts and spend on the park as they deem necessary. Tesco are making a commitment not just to this scheme but to the community.

Wonder if it'll kill off the Yew Tree as a shopping area. The Co-op is the major draw now. My wife's old shop (Travel House/Thomsons) closed about 3 years ago, that end of the Yew tree has been deadsville for ages. Now woolies is gone they might as well demolish that bit.

There was always that worry that a major supermarket that end would kill of the Yew Tree. I remember that even when I used to live there. It has seen some decline over the past few years without the supermarket even beginning construction. I remember when Video King closed down and I remember there was a butchers as well that shut down. The problems with Kwik Save and Woolworths have really dealt heavy blows as they were very much the anchors.

The presence of Tesco could lead to two things:
1. It completely wipes out the Yew Tree. Charity shops struggle to survive at best and it's just becomes a display case for 'To Let' signs.

2. It prompts the creation of a more independent retailers quarter for Yardley. It attracts a couple of big names to fill the larger units and the smaller units flourish as a result of increased footfall.

There is also the chance that things don't change and just gradually decline like they have in the past few years. I guess we may never know until it happens. :|

You do have an Iceland that took over the old Kwik Save site too, and across the swan there is Farmfoods, so it will be interesting to see what happens around here.

I didn't realise Iceland had taken over the Kwik Save unit. That's good. :)

Mind you the Orange shop* at the yew tree seems to do well.


*Tanning Centre

:banana:Things have come to a bit of a stand still!!
After all the noise and movement happening at the Swan, things have just stopped....
Being a nosey bugger I thought I would phone up the helpful people from Tesco to find out what’s going on. It turns out there is a bit of a dispute in relation to some of the land and who owns it! Thought that would have all been sorted out well before they even looked in to purchasing the land, Someone’s head is gonna roll!:banana:

Oh dear, what a mess up that is.

As there isn't a separate thread for it, Tesco at Hodge Hill has almost all the steel work up when I went past last week.

^^It's been an on going problem. It's a small spot of land but it's a real headache. The hearing for the CPO took place in July, so I believe, but I think the landowners may have appealed against any decision or they might have actually won. I never got the result of the CPO.

There was a plot of land right in front of Sainsbury's Northfield that was left as an eyesore for a couple of years. It's only recently been landscaped to fit into the rest of the grass area - I have no idea on how the dispute was finalised, if the landowner was found and sold up or if Sainsbury's just thought "stuff it, let's take a gamble".

Does anyone know where this piece of land is?

the one in Hodge hill is rising fast, shame thats its gonna destroy the area around there further with shops likely to close, huge increase in traffic, if they wanted a shop there they should have allowed them to build a small one, not a bloddy superstore

This elaborates a bit more on the land owners:

http://www.birminghampost.net/news/newsaggregator//tm_headline=birmingham-lib-dem-mp-issues-apology-over-tesco-claim%26method=full%26objectid=24776371%26siteid=65233-name_page.html

Birmingham Lib Dem MP issues apology over Tesco claim
Sep 25 2009 by Paul Dale, Birmingham Post
Add a commentRecommend Birmingham MP John Hemming has been forced to issue a public apology after criticising a businessman.

He agreed to “apologise unreservedly” after publishing comments about landowner Jeremy Knight-Adams in a Liberal Democrat In Focus newsletter distributed to hundreds of homes in his Yardley constituency.

The leaflet made allegations about a person who is refusing to sell land required by Tesco for a new superstore at the Swan shopping centre.

It made claims about the motives of the landowner, who is opposing city council attempts at compulsory purchase.

Although Mr Knight-Adams was not named, his lawyers argued it was clear the words must have been referring to him because no-one else who owned land needed for the Tesco Extra store was objecting to the CPO.

Mr Knight-Adams has put forward his own proposals for a new “community-orientated” shopping centre in Yardley.

Mr Hemming accepted that Mr Knight-Adams was not using spoiling tactics in an attempt to block Tesco.

The apology, in a new leaflet, states: “In our last newsletter, we referred to a few small plots have been purchased by people with the intention of delaying the Tesco development at the Swan Centre, Yardley, and that we are appalled by these spoiling tactics.

“That may have been thought to refer to Mr Jeremy Knight-Adams who is a property developer and has had involvement in a number of major retail developments in the Midlands.

“He has owned two plots of land within the area for more than 20 years which are the subject of a Compulsory Purchase Order promoted by Birmingham City Council to facilitate a proposed development of the Swan Centre by Tesco. We wish to make it clear that we did not suggest in that leaflet that Mr Knight-Adams has engaged in or is engaging in spoiling’ tactics.

Mr Knight-Adams said: “I believe the people of Yardley deserve better than a whacking great superstore and a number of extra retail units. As a district centre Yardley needs a comprehensive mixed use scheme which will provide opportunities for smaller businesses as well as other facilities that benefit the community.”

Mr Knight-Adams is demanding Mr Hemming pays his costs and makes a substantial payment to charity.

A spokesman for Mr Knight-Adams said lawyers for both sides were still trying to reach a settlement on costs.

Mr Hemming said: “We never intended to identify Mr Knight-Adams in the leaflet, and we don’t think we did.”

Deadlock broken, looks like this will start up soon:

http://www.birminghampost.net/dailybulletin/news2/2010/02/17/battle-against-supermarket-fails-as-tesco-gets-go-ahead-for-birmingham-site-65233-25857838/

Battle against supermarket fails as Tesco gets go ahead for Birmingham site
Feb 17 2010 Birmingham Post

A lively and long-running row over plans to build a Tesco superstore in a Birmingham suburb – involving allegations of libel, intimidation and contempt of parliament – has finally ended in favour of the retail giant, reveals Public Affairs Correspondent Paul Dale

An attempt to compulsorily purchase land needed to allow a former rundown shopping centre in Birmingham to be replaced by a giant Tesco store has been approved by Local Government Secretary John Denham and Transport Secretary Lord Adonis....

The renders look ok - better than that eyesore shopping centre.

News from EGI:
Tesco gets green light for The Swan CPO
Lisa Pilkington 29/04/2010 12:11

Tesco has won approval for a compulsory purchase order which will unlock plans to redevelop The Swan shopping centre in South Yardley, Birmingham.

The controversial plans include redeveloping the centre on the back of a Tesco store.

However, these proposals had been held up because of fierce opposition to the scheme and the subsequent compulsory purchase order inquiry.

Local businesses have been vocal in expressing their views. They believe the supermarket would dominate the area to a detrimental effect.

Tesco is now gearing up to start work on the site, which is located on the A45 Coventry Road.

Plans include a 150,000 sq ft retail development of which 80,000 sq ft will be for a Tesco Extra store.

Tony Fletcher, Tesco’s corporate affairs manager, said: “Now that the period of appeal is over, we can concentrate on completing the remaining land acquisition required for the scheme and move forward with bringing the new store and retail offering to fruition.”

ridiculous, it'll kill of the yew tree

ridiculous, it'll kill of the yew tree

Possibly, but then again possibly not? The demise of the Yew Tree has happened at the same time as the Swan Centre has ran down - the new Tesco will bring shoppers back to the area so maybe there is a chance that the Yew Tree could in fact benefit from this?

I think you're right there rob.

Whilst I'm not a fan of the Tesco bandwagon, the Yew Tree is hardly a example of retail excellence. I think the old Swan dump dragged the area down and this will start the raise the bar again.

Its goanna get very interesting with ADSA down the road, and I think there is a Somerfield or Safeway opposite. It should hopefully help the Yew Tree area ……..I hope

The Yew Tree (bit opposite the old Woolies) died off many years ago. But a few new shops have opened:- This Is Darts(probably the first dedicated Darts shop ever) and a new computer shop (which like all small computer shops will thrive for a few months and then close when they're busted for selling dodgy copies of Windows and hacking phones/Playstations).

Sorry i ment Asda

is this going to be the only Tesco Extra in Birmingham?

is this going to be the only Tesco Extra in Birmingham?

There's one in New Oscott which u can class as Birmingham

have they started this again?

I don't think so, I regularly pass that place. I don't see any construction vehicles.

(Whoo, my first post).

Update on this: The tendering process for the contractors for the road and Tesco store is now in its final phase meaning that work will most likely start in August at the earliest. Completion is set for the end of next year. :)

Any possible closures on Yardley Swan Centre? I really need to know because I regularly pass there.

^^^^

What?? Don't make sense, The Swan is no more, understand???

Anyone got any pics or is it still a massive hump of rubble nearly the size of Bakeman House??

Oops, I meant if there's will be a road closures.

EDIT: Last time I saw Swan centre was in about 20th July. It was still a massive hump of rubble.

Saw it this morning and nothings changed. I'll keep an eye out for any notices of road closures.

Oops, I meant if there's will be a road closures.

EDIT: Last time I saw Swan centre was in about 20th July. It was still a massive hump of rubble.


Lol , no problem mate.

So it's still rubble?? Been like it for well over a year and a half, & going to be hitting 2 years of rubble, ...crazy huh.

Any updates?

Nothing changed as of yesterday :ohno:

^ Wrong, you didn't see something because you wasn't on upper deck of double decker bus. I saw some of machinery and pile of rubble has gotten larger.

Bump, no update other than pile of rubble getting bigger ever since my last post.

Typical, never trust supermarkets I say:

Tesco accused of betrayal over development of Birmingham store

Nov 15 2010 by Neil Elkes, Birmingham Post


Retail giant Tesco has been accused of betrayal after applying to withdraw £300,000 in local community spin off fees from a major Birmingham store.

The company, which announced £1.6 billion half-year profit last month, also wants to delay the handover of most of the £3 million promised to the city council until after it has opened its new store at the Swan Shopping Centre in Yardley in 2012.

Under a legal agreement, signed with planning permission in 2002, Tesco agreed to pay the cash, inflation linked, to fund the development of Oaklands Recreation Ground and would pay the money once building started.

The site has been derelict for many years as the company was locked in compulsory purchase legal wrangles and building work is only now about to start.

Council planners, who meet on Thursday, are expected to allow the reduced contribution, fearing that Tesco may withdraw or add further delay leaving the site derelict for more years.

Coun David Osborne (Lib Dem, South Yardley) said: “I am very disappointed that Tesco does not wish to fulfil a promise made to local councillors and residents on which support for their plans was based.

“To renege on that commitment at this late stage is considered by those who offered support to be a betrayal of good faith.”

He explained that locals broadly supported the Tesco plan over a rival bid from Sainsbury because the company offered more spin off cash and wanted to build on significantly less of the recreation ground.

“It is even more galling that one of the reasons they want to reduce the amount is because of the economic climate, this is after Tesco announced £1.6 billion profit, up 12 per cent on the previous year,” he added. His view has been backed by the Friends of Oaklands Recreation Ground.

Tesco made an application to vary the spin off deal, called a Section 106 agreement. The company explained that “ “protracted compulsory purchase procedure” has led to delays and increased costs, and the recession has had an impact on retail, construction and property industry.


Read More http://www.birminghampost.net/news/newsaggregator//tm_headline=tesco-accused-of-betrayal-over-development-of-birmingham-store%26method=full%26objectid=27658951%26siteid=65233-name_page.html#ixzz15MYjnqHY

Contractors have been seen on Church Rd wearing hi-vis coats with Tesco branding erecting fencing and digging out a service road opposite the compound. Balfour Beatty are expected on site on Mon 29 November.

So if it means the site lay derelict then so be it. Much as I celebrate Supermarkets in everyday life Tesco must be held to this- Tesco will just end up wasting money when they could be making sales - and of course when it all picks up, they'll lose out.. simple logic.. It's a case of waiting until they make their move.

Contractors have been seen on Church Rd wearing hi-vis coats with Tesco branding erecting fencing and digging out a service road opposite the compound. Balfour Beatty are expected on site on Mon 29 November.

Thanks for the info and welcome :wave:

Today's update .

http://www.birminghampost.net/news/newsaggregator//tm_headline=tesco-cleared-to-go-ahead-with-swan-centre-development-at-yardley%26method=full%26objectid=27703131%26siteid=65233-name_page.html

There was machinery working on the Oaklands Rec site last night, looks like it's finally started again :)

There was machinery working on the Oaklands Rec site last night, looks like it's finally started again :)

I understand they have started building the new dual-carriageway which will run around the edge of the new complex - from the Swan island and re-joining near Harvey Road. See below: :)

http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/6173/swandevelopment1ei1.jpg

I don't understand why Tesco didn't just have a underground car park, rather than re-divert the road and cut into the playing fields

Where i can find branded men's were?

I don't understand why Tesco didn't just have a underground car park, rather than re-divert the road and cut into the playing fields

tesco don't want to spend the extra cost simple as that

I thought they would have cost more to do this to be honest, with the problem that is going on with cost at the runway extension i thought tesco would have just went the easy way!

It isn't easier and it's a whole lot more expensive to build underground car parks. They've got to take into consideration ventilation in the car park and where the ventilation shafts will be in relation to the site, there's also shoring up the walls against damp etc. In relation to that fact it'll serve a supermarket, they've got to consider ways of getting trolleys back up to the shop floor, because people are going to dump them in the car park.

I suppose the fact they have always been planning to widen Church Road here played to Tesco's advantage and so the redevelopment of the Swan allowed the road widening to take place along with changing the road configuration. I bet the terraced houses that currently overlook Church Road by the old Swan will appreciate all that traffic noise moving away a bit from their front doors!

How long will this project take? Will it involve any road closures in Church Road?

I would be intrigued to know the cost of re-aligning the road, as a comparison to the cost of diverting the A45 at BHX...

Thank you for the welcome Biosonic, very long time lurcker.

Construction company Bowman and Kirkland, have been appionted to build the new Tesco store. In my last post I mentioned that Balfour Beatty where to construct the new road, My information may now be incorrect, apolagies if this misled anyone.

DSM demolition will be back on site for further work to the basement and conopy of Bakeman House.

Not driectly to do with this, but Tesco objected to the supermarket to be built on the former Severn Trent site, looks like it could be Sainsburys.


Rivalry fears as supermarket plan is approved in Sheldon

Dec 6 2010

STORE wars could break out along Birmingham’s Coventry Road after a major supermarket was given the go-ahead by city planners.

Work has this week started on the long-awaited Tesco development at the Swan in Yardley.

And now another operator, thought to be Sainsbury, can build a 107,000 sq foot superstore about a mile away on the former Severn Trent Water offices and Focus DIY sites at Sheldon.

The three-level store will be built on stilts over the 544-space car park.

It is also very near to Tesco’s existing medium-sized store in Sheldon.

Tesco had raised objections on technical and transport grounds.

There is also an Aldi store in the area – on Coventry Road near Wagon Lane.

Residents living behind the new store site had also objected and demanded measures to prevent noisy deliveries and rat-running traffic.

Managing director of developer Chase Midland Estate Tim Haslam told the city’s planning committee that there was no demand for office space in the area and if the store was refused the site could remain derelict for some time.

“This will regenerate the Sheldon shopping area,” he added.

Committee members approved the development and backed a condition that at least 60 per cent of the 500 new jobs created would be filled locally.

They also welcomed a £200,000 spin-off contribution towards upgrading the subway under Coventry Road to improve links with Sheldon shopping centre.

A further £150,000 will support a Sheldon Town Centre management to promote the area.

Coun Keith Linnecor (Lab, Oscott) said: “This area badly needs jobs and this could boost trade in Sheldon.

“With the supermarket at the Swan, Aldi and Tesco all nearby the operator has some stiff competition.”

Agent for the developer CSJ Brooke Smith would not confirm whether Sainsbury is the chain involved, and added that negotiations with potential operators are ongoing.

A further detailed planning application will need to be made when final designs are confirmed.

No one from Sainsbury was immediately available for comment.


Read More http://www.birminghammail.net/news/top-stories//tm_headline=rivalry-fears-as-supermarket-plan-is-approved-in-sheldon%26method=full%26objectid=27776249%26siteid=97319-name_page.html#ixzz17L2PrOAb

Not driectly to do with this, but Tesco objected to the supermarket to be built on the former Severn Trent site, looks like it could be Sainsburys.

Good, competition in the area top keep them on their toes although, does Sainsbury's include a small shopping precinct as well? - Tesco's site may be a bigger draw..

Not sure if its been asked yet, but its the small Tesco in Sheldon been moved into this one, because that one is ridiculously small, especially the car park

Has this got any other retailers signed up? or is it just tesco confirmed at the moment?

Not sure if its been asked yet, but its the small Tesco in Sheldon been moved into this one, because that one is ridiculously small, especially the car park

Not that we know of, the smaller Tesco has a planning application for slight carpark changes, so I don't think it is going anywhere soon.

At the moment Aldi is across the road from the small Tesco, the new Sainsbury's (maybe) to be built about 0.5mile away, and Iceland already at Sheldon Shopping centre, there is only Morrisons and Lidl that don't have a store on the road.

There is also a Farmfoods at the old Staples store opposite the Swan development.

It all seems a bit much to me. :nuts:

Also, there's an ASDA at eastern end of Small Heath. It's about 5 minutes from Swan using bus.

the morrisons on small heath is struggling badly

Is it?? That's my local and it's always packed.

Its like the only Morrison in Birmingham, the rest are around Walsall and Aldridge (and the one in Shirley)

one at rubery great park and in redditch aswel

And one at Castle Brom.

And the big one in Solihull!

Morrisons in Small Heath may have suffered recently because of the road closure (rail bridge repair) for a few months.

I heard there is new shop opening at ex-Woolsworth shop. Have you heard of it? It's based in Small Heath's shopping centre (I dunno it's called), right next to Morrisons.

Yes they've been working on the huge unit for months - think it might be 3 individual lets. would have made a brilliant indoor football and cricket centre IMO.

I think there is a Boots and Peacocks open too

http://www.thompsonheaney.co.uk/content/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/StAndrews.pdf

Its crazy to think that was a Woolworths, its huge.. split into 7 units

Peacocks
Brantano
Outfit
Boots

Former Severn Trent site redevelopment given green light

9th December 2010
Tamlyn Jones

PLANS to build a new 100,000 sq ft supermarket and nearly 550 parking spaces on the site of Severn Trent's former HQ have taken a step closer after Birmingham planning chiefs granted approval.

The project on the A45 Coventry Road in Sheldon, near Birmingham Airport, will consist of a 107,300 sq ft supermarket, built on stilts and with permission to sell both food and non-food items, and 544 parking spaces.

Along with the food store, the three-level building will also have a café, service yard, another retail unit, glazed atrium, warehouse and storage areas.

No occupier has yet been confirmed but negotiations are said to be ongoing with major retailers, with detailed plans being submitted to Birmingham City Council early next year.

Highways improvements will include a traffic filter lane for vehicles approaching from Birmingham Airport direction while £200,000 will be spent on the underpass after it was decided pedestrian crossings would interrupt the flow of traffic too much.

Edgbaston-based planning consultancy CSJ Brooke Smith acted on behalf of Chase Midland Estate which will also be injecting £350,000 into management of Sheldon town centre.

Permission was granted at this stage subject to approval of a Section 106 agreement – extra infrastructure or community work carried out by developers – the details of which are still being finalised.

CSJ Brooke Smith associate director Will Charlton said: "We are very pleased that the scheme has won planning permission.

"It will be a huge boost for the local economy, bringing jobs and investment. It will help to kick-start the regeneration of this part of the city."

Severn Trent moved to brand new headquarters near Coventry city centre in September.

http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/assets/_files/cached/img/636x226/dec_10/businessdesk__1291644397_CGI_of_Sheldon_supermarket.jpg?access=3625T045T840

http://www.thebusinessdesk.com/westmidlands/news/100287-redevelopment-for-former-severn-trent-site-given-green-light.html?news_section=19012

well this is better than a load of abandoned 60's officies..... im glad to see that cov road is getting some development... it currently isnt the best welcome to those visiting the city from the airpor!

The old Severn Trent offices weren't bad to look at to be honest. The abandoned 'Horizon' flats of fail further up are more of an eye sore.

The canopy below Bakeman House is being taken down.

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1030837.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1030838.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1030839.jpg

And a few more random pictures of the area.

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1030841.jpg


http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1030842.jpg


http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1030843.jpg

It's great to see work again after so long :)

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1030843.jpg

http://i55.photobucket.com/albums/g151/iceman14141414/P1030845.jpg

Christ... I hardly recognise the place now! :eek:

Looked like quite a bit of the walls on the lower floors of the flats had been demolished when I went past today

I live pretty close this this lot. They're doing the subway in the Oaklands Rec to cope with the demand from this.

This project is estimated to be completed by summer 2011.

With the road to? Pushing it

I think so.

Living close by, they've not even started. Summer 2011? No way Jose. Summer 2012 at a push.

I think the road is due to be finished towards the end of this year, with the store due to open early 2012.

was anyone aware tesco have dropped the petrol station from this site in favour of more parking?

Application Details

Application Number 2011/00149/PA
Application Type Variation of Condition
Site Address Former Swan Shopping Centre Church Road Yardley Birmingham B26 Proposal Variation of condition schedule condition allocated to application 2010/02606/PA for minor minor amendments to the approved plans including deletion of the petrol filling station and its replacement with additional car parking and landscaping

Wooooh, was that a good idea Tesco?
If they had a petrol station at the one in Sheldon then it would be understandable, but a Tesco Extra with no petrol station?!

I guess it'll ease traffic though, but I can see them introducing it at a later date to be honest

Might not get planning permission for it later though? Those things generally don't smell very nice & I wouldn't want to live near one.

Having said that. This is Tesco we're talking about. And they may well end up buying the whole nation in a hostile take-over one day.

hmmmm seems a littl wierd but hey, its pregress in the name of sustainability i think....?

I am surprised they have dropped it as that is one thing that is lacking around the Yew Tree and that is petrol stations, there is a Shell on the Coventry Road on the outgoing side a few hundred yards away from this, but apart from that the nearest ones I can think of is probably a good mile to 2 miles away, both Shell, one by Stechford B&Q and one on the Stockfield Road, I can't really think of any others.

Might not get planning permission for it later though? Those things generally don't smell very nice & I wouldn't want to live near one.

Having said that. This is Tesco we're talking about. And they may well end up buying the whole nation in a hostile take-over one day.

^^ And they might actually run it better... :lol:

I am surprised they have dropped it as that is one thing that is lacking around the Yew Tree and that is petrol stations, there is a Shell on the Coventry Road on the outgoing side a few hundred yards away from this, but apart from that the nearest ones I can think of is probably a good mile to 2 miles away, both Shell, one by Stechford B&Q and one on the Stockfield Road, I can't really think of any others.

Strange, usually the councils force them not to put them in because they might wipe out the local competition as in Aston Lane but in this case it seems a bit of a strange decision to make. Since they make next to no profit on the petrol, might it be that they figured out people might clog the area up (ie the traffic junction) just to fill up and not bother to use the store.. who knows?

And whoever said this is a Tesco Extra: Are they sure it is an Extra or just a large standard store - again Aston Lane sized?

They appear to be taking out what was The Causeway and a chunk of the Oaklands near Equipoint today. Interestingly, they CPO's all the houses on The Causeway back in 1998, some 13 years before they needed too.

Strange, usually the councils force them not to put them in because they might wipe out the local competition as in Aston Lane but in this case it seems a bit of a strange decision to make. Since they make next to no profit on the petrol, might it be that they figured out people might clog the area up (ie the traffic junction) just to fill up and not bother to use the store.. who knows?

And whoever said this is a Tesco Extra: Are they sure it is an Extra or just a large standard store - again Aston Lane sized?

The plans say its going to be a Tesco Extra, with a mezzanine much like the one in New Oscott

They appear to be taking out what was The Causeway and a chunk of the Oaklands near Equipoint today. Interestingly, they CPO's all the houses on The Causeway back in 1998, some 13 years before they needed too.

That's because back then the original proposal was by Sainsbury's and the store was going to be built on that side of Church Road and be separate from the Swan shopping centre if I remember correctly.

Some of trees was cut down on church road.

There's steelwork been going up here over the past week or so. The road is also taking shape with the poles for the lamposts up. I'll try and grab a picture or two over the next few days.

Living the other side of the Oaklands Rec, you can see the road taking shape. I was walking the dog last night and had a look, looks like the dual carriage way has lights on the pavements AND in the Cen Res.

This can go in the Construction Thread now Mr. Woody

Steelwork now going up, and the road has the new street lights been fitted

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2376/5719270429_5e36e1c549_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3356/5719832672_bf43393cdd_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3059/5719273537_5c3a727bf2_b.jpg

Tesco Extra sign is ALREADY up minus coloured panels, and cladding has begun, looks like the Holiday Inn Express near the Old Bill and Bull and buildings around the airport.

http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h392/gradius57300/6a89abfc.jpg

New traffic island at the end of Harvey Road, the new dual carraigeway goes off into the park.

http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h392/gradius57300/b6d9c3f2.jpg

Progress on Tesco.

http://www.swancentreyardley.co.uk/news.aspx

Some ariel shots of progress (from April)

Blimey, that really puts into perspective how huge the car park is going to be...

oh why do developers love grey so much, what is the rationale? is it because it shows dirt less than white but is brighter than black... i wonder?

Blimey, that really puts into perspective how huge the car park is going to be...

Have you ever seen Pitsea Extra? You thought that was huge.....

The new road is now open now. I drove down it today on my driving lesson. :)

^^ I sat in queueing traffic for 15 mins on it today trying to get to my first driving lesson, there's great photo opportunities from there though :)

Good luck with your driving guys :)

The new road is now open now. I drove down it today on my driving lesson. :)

I've cycled on it a few times. Well, cycled on the coned off bit!

Road at new Tesco in Yardley is part-opened
by Emma McKinney, Birmingham Mail
Jun 11 2011
0ShareAdd a commentRecommend
http://images.icnetwork.co.uk/upl/birmmail/jun2011/0/9/new-road-is-part-opened-near-tesco-site-at-swan-island-yardley-843839471.jpg
WORK on a controversial Tesco store in Birmingham reached a new milestone when a major road being developed around the store was partially opened.

Contractors are currently re-routing and widening the A4040 Church Road, off Swan Island in Yardley, to make way for an 800-space car park as part of the £10 million project, which will also create 20 new shopping outlets around the store.

Several lanes of the redeveloped road were opened earlier this week.

And all work on the route is due to be complete within 12 weeks, marking a move forward in the scheme, which has been blighted by delays since Tesco won planning approval in 2002.

The 80,000 sq ft new store, which replaces the Swan Shopping Centre, will create more than 300 jobs and is due to open next spring.

East Yardley Neighbourhood Forum chairman Eddie Currall, said: “The work on Church Road has created a lot of traffic issues and has seen some beautiful old trees being felled, which is a real shame.

“The real issue, though, is that it’s having a real impact on independent shops, many of which have already closed and residents have lost places to meet and socialise.

“This development could rip the heart out of the community and will be the final nail in the coffin for local businesses.”

Coun David Willis (Lib Dem, South Yardley) added: “The development of Church Road has caused some traffic issues but I’m very happy with the progress so far, especially as we’ve been waiting a long time for this development.

“While I do have concerns that it could impact on local traders, I think Tesco could bring in fresh business to our independent shops.”

Yardley MP John Hemming (Lib Dem) said: “I’m thrilled with progress.

“This will help rejuvenate Yardley and will see £3 million spent on improving Oaklands Park, part of which will be swallowed up by the new car park and widening of Church Road.” A Tesco spokesman said: “This is a significant investment in Yardley.”


Read More http://www.birminghammail.net/news/top-stories/2011/06/11/road-at-new-tesco-in-yardley-is-part-opened-97319-28858191/#ixzz1OypvBvDO

Few more pics from the Coventry Road side.

http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h392/gradius57300/0a8c82d5.jpg

http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h392/gradius57300/c30d3ea8.jpg

http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h392/gradius57300/f4da3c34.jpg

Anybody know what the new steelwork is for in the last pic?

Petrol station building with a huge tesco advertisement maybe?

Pretty sure there isn't going to be a petrol station on this site. Especially as there is another one about 200 yards down the road.

Tesco Extra without a Petrol Station? I thought it was going to be on the other side of the road

Maybe not, after looking back through the posts to find the plan drawings i found this post I made that I really dont remember...:?:lol:

was anyone aware tesco have dropped the petrol station from this site in favour of more parking?

Application Details

Application Number 2011/00149/PA
Application Type Variation of Condition
Site Address Former Swan Shopping Centre Church Road Yardley Birmingham B26 Proposal Variation of condition schedule condition allocated to application 2010/02606/PA for minor minor amendments to the approved plans including deletion of the petrol filling station and its replacement with additional car parking and landscaping

Heres the plan i was on about, Anyone work out what it is?
I understand they have started building the new dual-carriageway which will run around the edge of the new complex - from the Swan island and re-joining near Harvey Road. See below: :)

http://img156.imageshack.us/img156/6173/swandevelopment1ei1.jpg

DOUBLE POST

Tesco have a habit of building something a bit different to the planning application and then applying for permission once it is built... Could well be one of them situations...

Pretty sure there isn't going to be a petrol station on this site. Especially as there is another one about 200 yards down the road.

Pretty much similar situation with the oneon Aston Lane. The site is big enough for a filling station but the guy down the road probably objected which is reasonable enough.

Few more pics from the Coventry Road side.

http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h392/gradius57300/0a8c82d5.jpg

http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h392/gradius57300/c30d3ea8.jpg

http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h392/gradius57300/f4da3c34.jpg

Anybody know what the new steelwork is for in the last pic?

It is for a small office block the site foreman tells me.

And if you go past on the top deck of the bus you can see that right end part has a deep excavation maybe for underground parking.

A bit of cladding going up and the building next door has grown.

http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h392/gradius57300/0eab93ba.jpg

http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h392/gradius57300/4948ac87.jpg

Wow it's like bournville college in black and White picture:/

Ifs been a while since anything has been posted on here, can anyone tell me how far they are on the construction. Also when can we see tesco's opening their doors

Ifs been a while since anything has been posted on here, can anyone tell me how far they are on the construction. Also when can we see tesco's opening their doors

I have been getting photo's while out cycling but having recently passed my driving test the bike is gathering dust, I'll try to get some pics over the weekend.

I went past today and it looks like things are really moving along.

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm49/metrogogo/tesco/P1000655.jpg
Tesco Express photo taken from the swan island.

http://i293.photobucket.com/albums/mm49/metrogogo/tesco/P1000656.jpg
this photo shows just how far back this develoment goes from the Coventry Rd to Church Rd.

The first photo reminds me of some parts of Berlin .

Think its more than a Tesco Express haha

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6221/6258029596_0cf7c961d9_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6047/6258016942_5f45dde6a3_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6019/6257458325_a3625eb3a8_b.jpg

First photo showing new steel work for the canopy and entrance to Bakeman House the other two shots from Church Rd showing how far this is extending out across Church Rd.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6221/6258029596_0cf7c961d9_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6047/6258016942_5f45dde6a3_b.jpg

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6019/6257458325_a3625eb3a8_b.jpg

First photo showing new steel work for the canopy and entrance to Bakeman House the other two shots from Church Rd showing how far this is extending out across Church Rd.

Looks like there will be a petrol station after all, on the opposite of dual carriageway.

Application Number 2011/07125/PA
Application Type Advertisement
Site Address Tesco Petrol Station Former Swan Centre Church Road Yardley Birmingham
Proposal Display of 3 internally illuminated and 6 non-illuminated signs

Looks like there will be a petrol station after all, on the opposite of dual carriageway.

Application Number 2011/07125/PA
Application Type Advertisement
Site Address Tesco Petrol Station Former Swan Centre Church Road Yardley Birmingham
Proposal Display of 3 internally illuminated and 6 non-illuminated signs


Typical of the conning bastards, looks like Erebus was right.

Tesco have a habit of building something a bit different to the planning application and then applying for permission once it is built... Could well be one of them situations...

As posted in the retail thread, Just for Pets now signed up, and some pics from ell, this is why we need him back, forum is dead without him. Hope he dont mind me posting these

Application Details
Application Number 2011/07755/PA
Application Type Full Planning
Site Address 11 Swan Centre Church Road Yardley Birmingham B26 1AA
Proposal Installation of new shop front
Planning Officer Debbie Farrington
Area Team P & R - East Team
Applicant Just For Pets Ltd

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7022/6694890291_4889c9d78a.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ell-r-brown/6694890291/)
Equipoint, Bakeman House and Tesco Extra - Coventry Road, South Yardley (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ell-r-brown/6694890291/) by ell brown (http://www.flickr.com/people/ell-r-brown/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7012/6694888261_ba2369da89.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ell-r-brown/6694888261/)
Tesco Extra - Coventry Road, South Yardley - sign (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ell-r-brown/6694888261/) by ell brown (http://www.flickr.com/people/ell-r-brown/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6694886341_c6321d6fbf.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ell-r-brown/6694886341/)
Tesco Extra - Coventry Road, South Yardley (http://www.flickr.com/photos/ell-r-brown/6694886341/) by ell brown (http://www.flickr.com/people/ell-r-brown/), on Flickr

Typical of the conning bastards, looks like Erebus was right.

And why, NeilM, is this such a huge problem?

And why, NeilM, is this such a huge problem?

Why Tesco being conning bastards is a problem? Well I let you think about that one.

To be honest, I hadn't realised when I originally posted that (almost 2 months ago) that the part that they are building the petrol station on was included in the original plan, and it was originally going to be a grassed area, I thought they were taking more of the park than they had originally were taking, hence the comment.

Plus the fact they seem to do it quite often (quoting Erebus) and change the goal posts i.e. include a petrol station on the edge of the carpark, then get rid of the petrol station and add extra spaces, and then later reintroduce the petrol station, but in a different area which means they keep the extra carparking spaces, AND get a petrol station, but they know the limits of planning law so can get away with certain things.

In this case it isn't a huge problem, but some would argue that the space should have been given back as part of the park instead, but I bet in other cases they have done more significant changes this way which would have caused people to rally against Tesco developments, but were passed through latter as a planning amendment when people had either failed in opposition and given up, or had accepted development when certain things were promised wouldn't happen.

If the petrol station had originally been planned for this space, there would have been complaints about it taking away even more of the park even though this isn't strictly true, but it would have been seen in that way and some added opposition, so they have worked their way around it.

Yes, it could be entirely innocent and they just changed there minds in the intervening years, but unfortunately for Tesco's they have previous form.

Anyway, went past this today, looks quite nice, they are in the middle of work on the carpark at the moment.

And no, no photos, I was driving :tongue2:

Why Tesco being conning bastards is a problem? Well I let you think about that one.

To be honest, I hadn't realised when I originally posted that (almost 2 months ago) that the part that they are building the petrol station on was included in the original plan, and it was originally going to be a grassed area, I thought they were taking more of the park than they had originally were taking, hence the comment.

Plus the fact they seem to do it quite often (quoting Erebus) and change the goal posts i.e. include a petrol station on the edge of the carpark, then get rid of the petrol station and add extra spaces, and then later reintroduce the petrol station, but in a different area which means they keep the extra carparking spaces, AND get a petrol station, but they know the limits of planning law so can get away with certain things.

In this case it isn't a huge problem, but some would argue that the space should have been given back as part of the park instead, but I bet in other cases they have done more significant changes this way which would have caused people to rally against Tesco developments, but were passed through latter as a planning amendment when people had either failed in opposition and given up, or had accepted development when certain things were promised wouldn't happen.

If the petrol station had originally been planned for this space, there would have been complaints about it taking away even more of the park even though this isn't strictly true, but it would have been seen in that way and some added opposition, so they have worked their way around it.

Yes, it could be entirely innocent and they just changed there minds in the intervening years, but unfortunately for Tesco's they have previous form.

okay but that's no less worse than what other supermarkets have the right to do, they just happen to act quicker than the rest. Simple.. And I seem to remember Sainsbury's being pretty aggressive with their expansion a few decades ago. The difference is, they fumbled the ball..... In any case, they're no less worse than the speculators out there banking land, setting up planning apps, and leaving, just to make money of them.

At least, certainly in this case, the intention is to build. BCC got a huge s106 payment out of them, consumers will have a choice of all supermarkets in that area - they'll even get a brand spanking new precinct. Win-win-win.

....of course, Tesco bashing is incredibly fashionable these days....

okay but that's no less worse than what other supermarkets have the right to do, they just happen to act quicker than the rest. Simple.. And I seem to remember Sainsbury's being pretty aggressive with their expansion a few decades ago. The difference is, they fumbled the ball..... In any case, they're no less worse than the speculators out there banking land, setting up planning apps, and leaving, just to make money of them.

At least, certainly in this case, the intention is to build. BCC got a huge s106 payment out of them, consumers will have a choice of all supermarkets in that area - they'll even get a brand spanking new precinct. Win-win-win.

....of course, Tesco bashing is incredibly fashionable these days....

Hmmm, I wonder why. No smoke without fire and all that.

We all know the other supermarkets are similar, just that Tescos have been the most aggressive and rapidly expanding in recent years, so of course they are going to get it in the neck more often (deservedly so sometimes).

And you have missed the point of what I was saying, I wasn't saying the development is wrong, it isn't, mostly it was what was needed, and a bottleneck of Church Road has been sorted out to a point.

I didn't have a particular problem with it until the petrol station issue as I explained previously, but I was wrong in my initial reaction, it doesn't stop me being concerned with the way some things are carried out and the reason certain things are done in certain ways and at certain times.

Throwing in my two pence, I think the move by Tesco is just making a mockery of the planning system. They did a similar move at Spring Hill where they proposed a decent looking office section and then built something far more bland, then applied for planning permission. By building it first, it makes it more difficult for the council to say no as it gives Tesco (and any other develoer) more firepower to threaten the council. It completely bypasses the consultation stage and the council have very little room to wag their finger.

Sainsburys did the same to the large store they have on the Stratford Road in Shirley.

They applied for a petrol station but as there were two already nearby it was turned down.

But when they built the store and car park they left the space for where the petrol station was planned to go.

And lo and behold a year or so later they were allowed to build a petrol station.

p.s. They also applied for a pharmacy and that was turned down originally, then then a year or so later they got permission.

They also extended / enlarged the Sainsbury store a few years later (as did the large Tesco further down the Stratford Road).

Seems whatever they apply to build in the first place can get changed quite significantly at a later date.

As a fairly regular visitor to Birmingham which I think is one of the most exciting big cities in Europe you are always pulling down and rebuilding. I know of no other city that is so constantly renewing itself. The only thing that bothers me about the UK is how the supermarkets seem to have so much power. Do you know that within the city of Paris no supermarket is allowed to have parking spaces for cars, the idea being it protects the small shops, in fact the Carrefour close to me, was refused even a pick up point. When they said it may lead to the stores closure. The council's reply was "Good we don't like you anyway. Close tomorrow then we will be very happy." a year letter they are still there. It's seems sad to me that the supermarkets have been allowed to run rings round Councils and Government.

As a fairly regular visitor to Birmingham which I think is one of the most exciting big cities in Europe you are always pulling down and rebuilding. I know of no other city that is so constantly renewing itself. The only thing that bothers me about the UK is how the supermarkets seem to have so much power. Do you know that within the city of Paris no supermarket is allowed to have parking spaces for cars, the idea being it protects the small shops, in fact the Carrefour close to me, was refused even a pick up point. When they said it may lead to the stores closure. The council's reply was "Good we don't like you anyway. Close tomorrow then we will be very happy." a year letter they are still there. It's seems sad to me that the supermarkets have been allowed to run rings round Councils and Government.

yeah, this is the uk... its profit before people over here sometimes

Yeh planning policy today seems to be overly supportive of the creation of new employment, although it doesn't really consider employment lost as a result of a development. I like the sound of the no-parking policy in France, though. Would be interesting to see how that would work here and what sort of knock on effects it would have, such as investment in public transport etc..

It is only Paris not the rest of France where they have this no parking policy.

Costa are now signed up

Application Details
Application Number 2012/00465/PA
Application Type Advertisement
Site Address Unit 21A Swan Centre Yardley Birmingham B26 1AD
Proposal Display of 2 no. non illuminated signs incorporated within previously approved totem sign
Planning Officer Justin Howell
Area Team P & R - East Team
Applicant Costa Ltd

Betfred, Card Factory, Just for Pets, Peacocks, Phones 4U, Specsavers, Costa and Tesco Extra.. Not bad lettings so far, We might have to erase Peacocks off that though..

Tesco Extra is due to open next month, not sure on the other stores though.

Greggs and Subway can both be added to that list of stores in the Swan Centre.

I found out because theres a sign that says which shops are in the shopping centre.

Shalom and welcome to the forum ShadowMonkey987!

I thought Peacocks have just gone into administration?

^^ They signed up to the scheme before they went bust, They are seeking a buyer though, with apparently the company that bought Bon Marche off them and edinburgh woollen mill interested in buying up the brand and company.

App for Greggs has now gone in confirming ShadowMonkeys post

Application Details
Application Number 2012/00719/PA
Application Type Advertisement
Site Address Unit 9, Swan Centre 20 Church Road Yardley Birmingham B25 8UJ
Proposal Display of 1 no. non illuminated sign panel on sign tower no. 2
Applicant Greggs Plc

Went past the site of the new petrol station today (7/2/12) which has two signs. First says Tesco Extra will open in 14 days time and the second says Petrol station opening soon.

I'm sure i read somewhere that Tesco's is opening on the 20th so the above post sounds right.

Where is the petrol station going anyway?

I nearly had a car accident a few weeks ago when I was driving past this.

It was a Sunday, the roads were quiet, and I was driving into Birmingham along the A45 to take some pictures of Eastside etc.

As I started to go under the Swan roundabout I was looking the the Swan development to my right.

There was a car some distance ahead of me, also going under the Swan underpass, but I must admit I was taking more notice of the new Tescos than the road in front.

All of a sudden out the corner of my eye I saw the brake lights come on on the car in front of me, and as I glanced round I noticed his bonnet had shot up, blocking his windscreen, and he came to sudden halt.

Luckily I was some distance behind him, and going quite slowly, so I was able to stop in time, but it certainly gave me a fright.

It made me realise I should keep my eye on the road in future, rather than looking at building sites.

haha! That's easier said than done when you're talking about a city that's evolving all the time.

not sure if these have been posted before, taken from the retail brochure
http://www.swancentreyardley.co.uk/images/graphics/newsTop.jpg

http://www.swancentreyardley.co.uk/images/graphics/investorTop.jpg

http://www.swancentreyardley.co.uk/images/cgi/slide01.jpg

and some internal progress shots from October, late but not sure weve seen any internals as yet
http://www.swancentreyardley.co.uk/images/news/2011/oct/11-11-01.jpg

http://www.swancentreyardley.co.uk/images/news/2011/oct/11-11-02.jpg

http://www.swancentreyardley.co.uk/images/news/2011/oct/11-11-03.jpg



http://www.swancentreyardley.co.uk/default.asp

Betfred, Card Factory, Just for Pets, Peacocks, Phones 4U, Specsavers, Costa and Tesco Extra.. Not bad lettings so far, We might have to erase Peacocks off that though..

Tesco Extra is due to open next month, not sure on the other stores though.

Greggs and subway since added

and now timpson
Application Details
Application Number 2012/00942/PA
Application Type Advertisement
Site Address Swan Centre Yardley Birmingham B26 1AD
Proposal Display of 2 no. non illuminated signs incorporated within 2 previously approved totem signs
Applicant Timpson Ltd

Official store opening on Monday 20th February at 10am. a few fhotos taken over the last couple of weeks.

Office development

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7201/6865277733_792f42c6c0_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7063/6888346043_e7ce849a61_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7200/6888346053_44430741ef_b.jpg

Entrance through Bakeman house leading into the mall.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7210/6865277507_971807f3ef_b.jpg

More photos
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7049/6888346089_d22dc42ed6_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7210/6865277507_971807f3ef_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7062/6865277323_79d5a04580_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7210/6865163765_0943597815_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7059/6888346097_2908c753c2_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7069/6865277635_d68fbdd6e9_b.jpg

Loads of activity both inside and out to get this development ready for for Mondays opening, it's looking much better than I expected.

Drove past this last night. The shelves are stacked and ready.

Whilst this isn't exactly a work of art, it's surprisingly less garish than I thought it would be for this area. Inside looks a bit Milton Keynes but it isn't offensive.

Originally Posted by ReissOmari
Betfred, Card Factory, Just for Pets, Peacocks, Phones 4U, Specsavers, Costa and Tesco Extra.. Not bad lettings so far, We might have to erase Peacocks off that though..

Tesco Extra is due to open next month, not sure on the other stores though.

Greggs and subway since added

and now timpson

I was going through the app, and on the Greggs one it states that there will be a Shoe Zone and 99p Store also

If you look at this planning document and go to the swan website, you can see which shop is in what unit.

http://eplanning.birmingham.gov.uk/Northgate/DocumentExplorer/documentstream/documentstream.aspx?name=public:0901487a80f5a224.pdf+0901487a80f5a224&unique=560427&type=eplprod_DC_PLANAPP

http://www.swancentreyardley.co.uk/siteplan.asp

Good find Reiss.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7062/6865277323_79d5a04580_b.jpg

Well 99p Store is confirmed the sign is already up on the outside totem sign from that planning app.

Pretty cool, hope more of this sort of projects are built ''IN'' Birmingham (not outside or outskirts).

Seriously Birimngham would do well with a few more decent mini ''Shopping Centre'' to be built in Birmingham/not outskirts of Bham but in , and to be built decent like this and to also be built on or near bham high street's and more so in the south of the city maybe selly oak, kings heath, moseley, kings norton, cotteridge or northfield.

I think Bham needs another big style shoppping centre to be built in south bham somewhere possibly moseley, kings heath, cotteridge, kings norton, selly oak, northfield etc big style shopping centre's like in London, we already have the Fort in north Bham why not another in south Bham where there's more population and south Bham is more larger and bigger.

We need Bham to be built like a big city.

Good find Reiss.

Well 99p Store is confirmed the sign is already up on the outside totem sign from that planning app.

Just noticed on that photo that ShoeZone and Peacocks are missing off the totem, I did say before Peacocks could pull out due to their situation at the moment.

Longbridge town centre or Selly Oak Triangle then?

???

I've been away for a while so I don't know half of what's going to be built or not, so what's this selly oak triangle project then???? sound's like it might be good.

Selly Oak Triangle
http://www.sellyoak-regeneration.co.uk/images/site-plan.jpg

Longbridge Town Centre
http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6044/6250448180_86a742a967_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/58990999@N03/6250448180/)
plan (http://www.flickr.com/photos/58990999@N03/6250448180/) by sefton 66 (http://www.flickr.com/people/58990999@N03/), on Flickr

Pretty cool, hope more of this sort of projects are built ''IN'' Birmingham (not outside or outskirts).

Seriously Birimngham would do well with a few more decent mini ''Shopping Centre'' to be built in Birmingham/not outskirts of Bham but in , and to be built decent like this and to also be built on or near bham high street's and more so in the south of the city maybe selly oak, kings heath, moseley, kings norton, cotteridge or northfield.

I think Bham needs another big style shoppping centre to be built in south bham somewhere possibly moseley, kings heath, cotteridge, kings norton, selly oak, northfield etc big style shopping centre's like in London, we already have the Fort in north Bham why not another in south Bham where there's more population and south Bham is more larger and bigger.

We need Bham to be built like a big city.

Those big "warehouse" style complexes are exactly what Birmingham or any other city does not need. They are heavily reliant on car travel to get to and from them and it's completely unsustainable. It's already seen now that those sorts of developments from just 10-20 years ago were bad planning decisions. The last thing we need to be doing, especially in a congested city like Birmingham, is to promote car dependency.

Have to totally disagree with you, if I have a car then I would rather use my car than rely on public transport which hardly connects ''places'' with ''other places'' that you woulld need to get to.

Hate the idea of people trying to turn Bham into a car free city, that seriously would not work and you need to think about it, why and how would a whole city rely on awful public transport that hardly connects to or with each other work, hence why we do have public transport and cars as people choose what sort of transport they would like to use.

Have to totally disagree with you, if I have a car then I would rather use my car than rely on public transport which hardly connects ''places'' with ''other places'' that you woulld need to get to.

Hate the idea of people trying to turn Bham into a car free city, that seriously would not work and you need to think about it, why and how would a whole city rely on awful public transport that hardly connects to or with each other work, hence why we do have public transport and cars as people choose what sort of transport they would like to use.

I'm not suggesting turning it into a car free city but large complexes of shed units in out of town unnecessarily promote car usage and kill off existing town centres. It leads to heavy congestion on roads in areas and this prompts transport executives to invest more into the roads to accommodate the cars. That takes funding away from public transport improvements, hence why it gets more "awful".

It's an unsustainable and unhealthy cycle that we need to break out of. Thank God the government are promoting a local town centre protectionist policy now.

having said all this, in terms of Longbridge, a small high street with low rents could have been ideal. I'm thinking more along the lines of Jubilee Crescent in Coventry. The one bit of their old town planning they got right and is completely spot on.

http://cv6.coventrytelegraph.net/jubilee%20crescent,%20radford,%201997.jpg

bottom of the pic are 'new' builds as this area got bombed (Daimler Works were up the road). But on the bottom left, I believe is a Library/Community centre and a Tesco Metro Store and on the bottom right is a Wine shop. Apart from the damage the Luftwaffe did, this crescent was the model of a small 'town' centre that Longbridge should have been inspired by.. The warehouse approach is just lazy...

Opening day today from 10:00 not sure when thney shut as Tesco probably shuts late as every supermarket does.

I believe there are 3 entry ways/entrances, which is good so not muchpushing, shoving and squeezing through one entrance, the main entrance outside the number 11 bus stop opposite the equipoint office block is pretty nice, all a nice gleaming finish especially going in, but blimey the traffic is shocking on the Cov road both ways yardley to small heath, and the traffic is even clogged where the car parl is by tesco towards the yew tree, but maybe because it's the first day and everybody is rushing in, but overall not bad place actually.

Curious to what other stores will be opening there soon as there are a few empties still and of course a few dropped out such as peacocks.

Oh boy that Shop was packed today (I work at Tesco's as a Grocery Assistant :D)

It felt like a tornado ripped through the place XD Stock was flying off the shelves XD Time flew way too fast XD

Basmati Rice was sold out within 3 hours (It was on promotion Buy 2 for £9) I had to get flat tops every 10 minutes to fill the promotion area back up. We got a new delivery later on in the day though. One woman took a flat top off me that was filled with the stuff XD

Also the Spring Cleaning Promotional Aisle was a big hit I was bringing out cages full of stock to replenish what the customers were taking.. We ran out of stock on some products so we had to print off new labels and such to get more stock out.

Let's hope it won't be the same tomorrow XD I did 13 hours of work today (8am-9pm I chose to do an extra 4 hours though) :D another 12 tomorrow :D (again I'm choosing to do these hours)

I'm off to bed it was a busy day today :D

Being from sheldon popped into the swan shopping centre(not 4 basmati rice) I MAY ADD,AND WAS IMPRESSED BY THE GENERAL BUILDING STANDARD,MATERIALS AND LAYOUT OF THE SHOPPING CENTRE.

Oh boy that Shop was packed today (I work at Tesco's as a Grocery Assistant :D)....

Haha...! Wouldn't say that in here..

Anyway, good stuff.. Looks like there was a need for the site after all... Hopefully they can fill the place with some reasonably suitable shops for the precinct.. Good stuff. Has the whole site been finally completed or is there work still yet to be done?

http://i1107.photobucket.com/albums/h392/gradius57300/25be8608.jpg
Trolley cam :)

Popped in today, looks really nice. Was really busy too.

The open shops I can remember we're spec savers, costa coffee, greggs, subway, 99p stores, timpsons and phones 4 u.

I really hope those Tesco Extra signs are temporary..

That was the first thing I thought when I saw them too.

I've just checked Jubilee Cresent on Google Maps ; very nice indeed .Is there a reason it didn't run all the way around ? There again it wouldn't be a cresent I suppose .:)

Petrol station and landscaping work still to be competed.http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7180/6917908121_2d8d313964_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7066/6917918967_b0bc1c9f87_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7182/6917913445_65286ab792_b.jpg

Plus the office block on Coventry Rd.

Completely unrecognisable!

I've just checked Jubilee Cresent on Google Maps ; very nice indeed .Is there a reason it didn't run all the way around ? There again it wouldn't be a cresent I suppose .:)

Likely bomb damage as the Daimler works was just up the road.

Oh boy that Shop was packed today (I work at Tesco's as a Grocery Assistant :D)

It felt like a tornado ripped through the place XD Stock was flying off the shelves XD Time flew way too fast XD

Basmati Rice was sold out within 3 hours (It was on promotion Buy 2 for £9) I had to get flat tops every 10 minutes to fill the promotion area back up. We got a new delivery later on in the day though. One woman took a flat top off me that was filled with the stuff XD

Also the Spring Cleaning Promotional Aisle was a big hit I was bringing out cages full of stock to replenish what the customers were taking.. We ran out of stock on some products so we had to print off new labels and such to get more stock out.

Let's hope it won't be the same tomorrow XD I did 13 hours of work today (8am-9pm I chose to do an extra 4 hours though) :D another 12 tomorrow :D (again I'm choosing to do these hours)

I'm off to bed it was a busy day today :D

Wow, I feel old. I had to look up what XD meant...

http://media.urbandictionary.com/image/page/xd-16635.jpg

Picture from http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=XD

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