Plans have been unveiled for the ambitious development of the National Exhibition Centre Campus in Solihull, creating up to 10,000 new jobs and 2,500 new homes.

Birmingham City Council and The NEC Group launched the NEC Masterplan, revealing the intention to redevelop 75 hectares of land in Solihull into 315,000 square metres of new floorspace.

The site is home to the NEC, its sister venue Genting Arena, Resorts World Birmingham and the recently-opened Merlin visitor attraction, Bear Grylls Adventure.

Ian Ward Leader of Birmingham City Council said: "I am delighted to launch this Masterplan which sets out a radical vision for the transformation of the NEC campus which will not only see the Midlands International appeal and global position strengthened but also bring huge economic benefits to our local communities."


NEC Group was recently sold to private equity funds managed by 'Blackstone' As part of the original sale of the NEC Group in 2015 the City Council retained a freehold interest in the land at the Solihull site.

Paul Thandi – CEO of NEC Group said: "With the backing of our new majority shareholder, Blackstone, we have ambitious plans to develop our business further. The Masterplan is an important element of that expansion and builds on the excellent progress we have made over the last few years towards creating a truly world-class business, entertainment and leisure destination."

Councillor Bob Sleigh, Leader of Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council added: "I welcome the publication of this Masterplan for the NEC which has been identified as one of the main areas for growth in the UK Central Hub, Solihull. These ambitious proposals to continue the diversification of the leisure and entertainment offer are a key component of the UK Central vision to be globally renowned as one of the best connected destinations for business, leisure and living in Europe and a major engine for growth in the UK."

The council will be asked to endorse the NEC Masterplan at its meeting on 13 November.

(CM)