Byrne Presses HS2 to Deliver Business Park Timetable

Liam Byrne MP today met senior HS2 officials at the Washwood Heath Drew’s Lane site to insist on a firm timetable for handing back land to unlock the creation of thousands of local jobs.

The Washwood Heath site (formerly the LDV site) has long been earmarked for redevelopment as a major business park, forming a key part of Liam Byrne’s election pledge to drive jobs and regeneration in East Birmingham. However, progress has been delayed due to unresolved issues with HS2.

During today’s visit, Byrne pressed HS2 leaders to commit to a clear timetable for returning surplus land so development work can begin.

“This land is one of our region’s most valuable economic assets,” said Liam Byrne MP.

“Right now, it’s sitting idle because of bureaucratic delays. We can’t afford to let red tape hold back thousands of good jobs for local people. The government needs to step in, get HS2 to hand back the land, and unlock this site for the next generation of East Birmingham’s economy.”

The redevelopment of the former LDV site could support up to 3,000 jobs, sitting at the heart of two constituencies with the highest unemployment rates in the UK. Located on the doorstep of Ward End, the site offers a major opportunity to revitalise communities where too many young people are currently trapped in insecure or informal work.

Byrne has already met with Transport Minister Heidi Alexander to press for a resolution with HS2 and provide the support needed to get the business park project moving.

Unlocking the Washwood Heath land would transform a currently stalled site into a strategic employment hub - bringing new investment, stable and well-paid jobs, and a much-needed boost to the local economy.