Question to the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government:

To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government, what steps he is taking to ensure that the Urban Growth Company takes account of the potential contribution of Birmingham Airport to UK trade.

This Government is working with all areas with HS2 stations in order that they maximise the opportunity for growth. This includes Solihull, which will benefit from a new interchange station close to Birmingham Airport. In order that the area can deliver key projects that will underpin local growth, Solihull Council has established the Urban Growth Company. The growth company aims to deliver 35,000 jobs, 3,500 homes and an increase in GVA of £1 billion.

The Urban Growth Company is now preparing a Growth and Infrastructure Plan which includes growth opportunities associated with Jaguar Land Rover, Birmingham Airport, the National Exhibition Centre and the proposed HS2 station. This plan is being developed with local stakeholders, including Birmingham Airport. This work will inform the current review of the Solihull Local Plan, and any proposals will be subject to the normal planning process.