This week in West Midlands Combined Authority:

£8 Million Greenlit for Kingshurst Regeneration, But Concerns Linger Over Value for Money

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Investment Board met on Monday 20 July 2026, approving £8 million in grant funding for Phase 2 of the Kingshurst Village Centre Regeneration project. This significant investment aims to deliver a new community, health, and retail building in an area facing considerable deprivation. However, the decision was not without its critics, with concerns raised about the clarity of project objectives and the affordability of the scheme.

Kingshurst Regeneration: A Vital Hub with Caveats

The approval of the Full Business Case for £8 million in grant funding for Phase 2 of the Kingshurst Regeneration project is a crucial step towards revitalising the village centre. This phase will deliver a much-needed community, health, and retail building, addressing significant health and social inequalities in the Kingshurst area. The project is expected to contribute to inclusive growth and align with the WMCA's strategic priorities.

However, the appraisal process highlighted potential issues. The appraiser noted that they were unable to independently verify the BCR or VfM category. There is a risk that VfM conclusions may be unreliable, potentially undermining the investment decision. ¹ Furthermore, a substantial portion of the funding was not yet secured and relied heavily on loans. Despite these concerns, the project was deemed to represent high value for money, with a Benefit-Cost Ratio (BCR) of 2.7:1, provided that the tenant mix remains consistent for the building's 60-year lifespan and no further public funding is required for increased costs.

The approval is conditional on Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council's Cabinet approving the project's progression to Phase 2 on 17 September 2026, and the submission of updated Benefits Realisation and Monitoring and Evaluation Plans. Authority has been delegated to the Executive Director/Investment Programme SRO to negotiate the terms of the Grant Funding Agreement.

Learn more about the Investment Board meeting

Smith's Garden Development Promises New Homes

The Board also approved the WMCA entering into an agreement to provide grant funding for the development of up to 550 housing units at Smith's Garden, Camp Hill, Birmingham. This development will include a minimum of 19 affordable housing units, contributing to the region's housing needs. Authority has been delegated to the Director of Commercial and Investment to negotiate the terms of the agreement. The WMCA will also charge £164,000 in project costs to the Brownfield Infrastructure Land Fund or another suitable fund.

Redford Developments Loan Extended

In a separate decision, the Board approved the extension of a loan to Redford Developments (formerly Rainer Developments) for a term of 18 months. This loan is part of the Commercial Investment Fund/Residential Investment Fund. Authority has been delegated to the Director of Commercial and Investment to negotiate and approve the final terms.

Investment Programme and Transport Funding Updates

The meeting also included updates on the broader Investment Programme. It was noted that since the previous meeting, no new business cases or change requests had been approved by WMCA Officers under delegated authority. Councillor Lynnette Kelly raised questions about change requests and projects that had missed their completion dates, prompting a discussion about the need for more robust training on the investment programme's mechanics. A private session is to be arranged to address this.

Philip Havenhand, Programme Lead for the City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS), reported good progress on the CRSTS programme for Quarter 4 of the financial year 2025/26. £639 million of the total £1.182 billion CRSTS grant had been spent by 31 March 2026. The programme is over-programmed to £1.467 billion to maximise spend and delivery by March 2027, with remaining funding to be carried forward into the Transport for City-Region (TCR) spend period, extending delivery through to 2032. Councillor Steve Clark inquired about the allocation of funding between previous administrations and new pipelines, and Councillor Dave Pinwell suggested a future report should detail underspends in local authorities to ensure maximum utilisation of funds.

Dashboards for the Commercial Investment Fund (CIF), Residential Investment Fund (RIF), and Brownfield Land & Property Development Fund (BLPDF) were also presented, detailing committed and repaid investments, jobs created, and development outcomes.

Learn more about the Investment Board meeting

This week in West Midlands Combined Authority:

WMCA Board Approves Major Constitutional Overhaul and New Transport Investment Approach

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Board met on Friday 17 July 2026, making significant decisions that will reshape the council's governance and its approach to transport investment. The board approved substantial changes to the WMCA's constitution and agreed a new programme approach for future transport projects, alongside noting the financial outturn for the past year.

Constitutional Overhaul for Clarity and Accountability

In a move designed to enhance clarity and accessibility, the WMCA Board approved amendments to Parts A and B of the council's constitution. These changes, the first phase of an ongoing review, aim to align the document with the new English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026. They clarify the roles and responsibilities of the Mayor, the Combined Authority Board, committees, and statutory officers. Authority has been delegated to the Monitoring Officer to finalise the drafting, ensuring the constitution is up-to-date and easy to understand for all involved. Further phases of the review will address other key areas, promising a more robust governance framework.

Learn more about the WMCA Board meeting

New Programme Approach for Transport Investment

The board endorsed a new programme approach for the Transport for City Regions (TCR) programme, following Phase 2 of the Rosewell Review. This revised strategy will allocate funding roughly equally between priority Growth Corridors and Network Needs, which includes maintenance and schemes outside of these corridors. The proposed delivery portfolios were agreed, with final funding allocations to be presented in September. A revised gateway approach will ensure prompt and robust assurance for projects from development through to delivery. This shift signals a more strategic and potentially more efficient way of investing in the region's transport future, aiming to deliver better outcomes for commuters and businesses alike.

Financial Health and Capital Investment

The board noted the provisional financial outturn for the 2025/26 financial year, which shows a revenue underspend of £7.0 million. This surplus is set to be transferred to the General Reserve, strengthening the council's financial resilience. Capital expenditure saw a significant improvement, with £463.8 million invested against an approved budget, representing a 71% delivery rate – an 11% improvement on previous years. Budgets for key projects like the Wednesbury - Brierley Hill metro extension and the Dudley Interchange were updated, reflecting the ongoing commitment to vital infrastructure.

Executive Director Appointment

Wayne Bexton was approved for the role of Executive Director of Major Capital Programmes, a crucial appointment for overseeing the delivery of the WMCA's ambitious infrastructure plans.

Learn more about the WMCA Board meeting

New Scrutiny Powers and Integrated Settlement Performance Under Review

The Local Scrutiny Committee met on Monday 13 July 2026, with a significant focus on the implications of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026 for combined authority scrutiny. The committee also reviewed the performance of the Integrated Settlement for the 2025/26 financial year.

Enhanced Scrutiny Powers on the Horizon

The committee discussed the forthcoming changes brought by the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Act 2026, which will significantly strengthen the scrutiny of combined authorities. From April 2027, the WMCA will have enhanced statutory scrutiny functions, including powers to investigate local matters, review decisions of the Mayor and WMCA Board, and make recommendations that must be formally responded to. A key development will be a statutory focus on value for money in all decisions.

Crucially, the Act will empower the committee to require key individuals, including the Mayor and officers, to attend meetings and provide information. Furthermore, a new public petition mechanism will allow residents to directly influence the committee's agenda. These changes are designed to increase accountability and ensure that combined authorities are more responsive to the needs of their residents, particularly those in vulnerable groups who rely on the effective delivery of public services.

Integrated Settlement Delivers on Key Outcomes

The committee received the Integrated Settlement Annual Report for 2025/26, which consolidates various government funding streams. The report indicates strong performance, with £364.7 million of the £392.4 million allocated funding spent or accrued. Of the ten outcomes in the framework, seven were rated 'green' (delivered), including improvements in local economic prosperity, housing supply, and reductions in carbon emissions. Three outcomes were rated 'amber', showing progress but not full delivery, such as improved public transport and supporting disabled residents into work. While the report highlights progress, the committee raised questions about the definition of 'delivered' for qualifications and the need for more detailed data to fully evaluate performance.

Learn more about the Local Scrutiny Committee meeting

Audit Committee Notes Positive Financial Outturn and Approves Audit Plans

The Audit, Risk & Assurance Committee met on Tuesday 14 July 2026, reviewing the WMCA's financial performance and governance. The committee noted a positive financial outturn for the 2025/26 financial year and approved the internal audit plan for the upcoming year.

Strong Financial Performance and Treasury Management

The committee received a positive update on the WMCA's financial outturn for 2025/26, with a £7 million underspend transferred to the general fund reserve, strengthening the authority's financial position. Capital expenditure delivery also saw an 11% improvement. The Treasury Management Outturn Report for 2025/26 showed a significant decrease in net borrowing, leaving the WMCA in a net investment position. No new borrowing was undertaken, and historic debt was repaid at a discount, generating savings. Investment activity in the year produced £48 million in income. These financial decisions are crucial for ensuring the WMCA can continue to fund essential services and invest in regional development, providing stability for residents and businesses.

Internal Audit and Risk Management

The committee approved the Internal Audit Plan and Proactive Counter Fraud Plan for 2026/27. These plans focus on significant strategic and operational risks, including organisational transformation, financial stewardship, and cyber security. Updates were also provided on the transfer of police and fire services, and the ongoing Business Continuity Programme, which has seen significant progress in improving the WMCA's resilience. The committee also noted that none of the 20 complaints referred to the Local Government and Social Care Ombudsman were upheld, indicating effective complaint handling.

Learn more about the Audit, Risk & Assurance Committee meeting

This week in West Midlands Combined Authority:

Major Investment Board Approves Funding for Transport and Supported Housing

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Investment Board met on Monday 22 June 2026, making key decisions on significant funding allocations that will impact transport infrastructure and support for vulnerable residents. The board approved the draw down of funds for crucial transport projects, including the East Birmingham to Solihull Mass Rapid Transit Corridor and the Sports Quarter Connectivity Programme. They also greenlit a substantial Supported Housing Funding Programme aimed at tackling homelessness.

Boosting Connectivity: Metro Extension and Sports Quarter

The board approved the draw down of up to £5.747 million from the Transport for City Regions (TCR) development fund. This funding is essential to accelerate preparatory work for the East Birmingham to Solihull Mass Rapid Transit Corridor and the associated Sports Quarter Connectivity Programme. This includes advancing designs, completing business cases, and undertaking consultations for a potential Metro extension.

The urgency for this funding is tied to the ambitious timeline for the Sports Quarter development, which includes a new stadium targeted to open in Summer 2031. Councillor Dave Pinwell, while expressing a preference for a broader strategic overview, ultimately supported the recommendation to avoid delays. The Chair of the Investment Board, Councillor Stephen Simkins, stressed the importance of integrated transport systems and robust project management, especially with multiple partners involved.

The decision means that vital preparatory work, including design development and statutory processes for the Metro extension, can proceed. This investment is part of a larger £50 million TCR advance allocation, crucial for maintaining momentum on projects that will shape the region's future connectivity.

Learn more about the Investment Board meeting

Tackling Homelessness with Dedicated Supported Housing Funding

A significant allocation of £18.27 million was earmarked for a Supported Housing Funding Programme, designed to combat homelessness and rough sleeping across the West Midlands. This funding, part of a national programme from the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, will be primarily directed to Birmingham and Coventry.

The preferred approach is to passport the funding directly to Birmingham City Council (£13.4 million) and Coventry City Council (£4.47 million), who have established commissioning frameworks and local expertise. This strategy aims to maximise the funds reaching frontline services and prevent duplication. The programme's goal is to increase the availability and quality of supported accommodation, helping individuals move towards independent living.

Neelam Sunder, Head of Designing out Homelessness at WMCA, explained that Birmingham's larger allocation reflects its greater needs, particularly for individuals with complex support requirements. Councillor Chris Garghan raised concerns about rough sleeping occurring on the borders between local authorities, questioning how this funding would address such issues. Assurances were given regarding existing reconnection protocols and the development of regional strategies to ensure comprehensive support. This funding is a critical step in providing safe and stable accommodation for those most at risk.

Learn more about the Investment Board meeting

Investment Programme Update and Fund Performance

The Investment Board also received updates on the WMCA's overall Investment Programme. As of 31 March 2026, approved grant funding administered by the WMCA totalled £847.3 million. The board noted that the WMCA had met the required standards for the 2025/26 Investment Programme Annual Review, and the 2026/27 annual payment had been received.

Updates were also provided on the Commercial Investment Fund (CIF), Brownfield Land & Property Development Fund (BLPDF), and Residential Investment Fund (RIF). These repayable loan funds have collectively lent over £400 million to date with no recorded losses. The BLPDF has leveraged £201 million in private sector investment, and the RIF has supported the creation of 1,725 homes.

However, the meeting also highlighted challenges. The Metro Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Extension Phase 1, despite being physically complete, is experiencing delays in its testing and commissioning phase due to safety testing. Ed Bradburn, Chief Executive of WMCA, acknowledged historical issues with transport project delivery timelines and emphasised the need for a more staged approach to funding commitments. This underscores the complexity of delivering large-scale infrastructure projects and the importance of robust oversight.

Learn more about the Investment Board meeting

Key Executive Director Appointment Discussed in Private

The Employment Committee met on Friday 26 June 2026 to discuss the crucial appointment of an Executive Director for Major Capital Projects. This role is vital for overseeing the WMCA's significant infrastructure and development initiatives.

Due to the sensitive nature of personnel appointments, this discussion took place in private, with the public and press excluded. This is in line with Section 100(A) of the Local Government Act 1972, which allows for the exclusion of information that is likely to involve the disclosure of exempt information. While the specific details of the appointment remain confidential, the selection of a qualified individual for this position is paramount to ensuring the effective delivery of major projects that will shape the region's future.

Learn more about the Employment Committee meeting

This week in West Midlands Combined Authority:

Mayor Unveils Ambitious Priorities for Growth, Homes, and Jobs

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Board met on Friday 12 June 2026, with Mayor Richard Parker outlining his four key priorities: Growth for Everyone, Homes for Everyone, Jobs for Everyone, and Journeys for Everyone. These priorities aim to steer the region's development, foster inclusive growth, and deliver tangible benefits to all communities. The WMCA's budget for the current financial year stands at £588 million, with capital investment projected to exceed £2 billion over the medium term.

Mayor Parker emphasised the importance of inclusive growth, stating, unless growth, jobs, homes, journeys are genuinely for everyone in this region, that we will have failed the large majority of people, the large majority of citizens that we're here to serve. The region's economy could be £17 billion larger if it matched the growth rates of similar regions, which would translate to an extra £8,600 for every working person and create 93,000 new jobs.

Boosting the Economy and Creating Opportunities

The WMCA is investing nearly £60 million over the next three years to revitalise high streets and town centres, transforming empty units into vibrant spaces. The West Midlands Growth Company has been revamped to attract inward investment and support local businesses. Significant regeneration projects are underway, including the £3.8 billion West Midlands Futures Fund and the Birmingham East Merrill Development Corporation, which is expected to unlock £10 billion in private investment, 50,000 jobs, and 20,000 new homes.

To ensure residents can access these new jobs, the WMCA is focusing on skills development. The devolved adult skills fund is being used to commission courses that help citizens gain employment, with £30 million allocated to improve college facilities, particularly for construction skills. The Youth Trailblazer programme provides young people at risk of being left behind with tailored pathways into work, including work experience, pre-employment training, and mentoring.

Delivering More Homes and Improving Existing Stock

The WMCA is committed to building more homes, with a target of contributing to the national goal of 1.5 million new homes. In the last financial year, housing grants unlocked 36% affordable homes, with over a thousand social homes created. Schemes like Nell Square in Sully Hull, Smithgate in Wolverhampton, Friar Park in Sandwell, and Spon End in Coventry are examples of this progress.

Beyond new builds, the WMCA is investing nearly £200 million to improve the energy efficiency of 14,000 properties across the region, aiming to cut bills for residents.

Transforming Transport for a Sustainable Future

The WMCA's transport strategy aims for half of all trips to be made by sustainable modes by 2035. This includes planning the transport network, securing funding, and building infrastructure. The Camp Hill line has seen five new railway stations open, proving highly popular. The region has secured £2.4 billion for new transport infrastructure between now and 2032.

Preparations are underway to bring buses under public control through a franchising model. Funding has been set aside to purchase regional bus depots and the National Express bus fleet. The WMCA is also exploring innovative ways to encourage bus ridership, such as its award-winning passenger incentives campaign. High Speed 2 (HS2) continues to be a significant investment, with new stations planned for Birmingham and Solihull. The region is also pioneering new transport technologies like very light rail in Coventry and has introduced a new e-bike and e-scooter scheme.

The board also approved the appointments of members to various boards and committees for the 2026/27 municipal year, including the Audit, Risk & Assurance Committee and the Investment Board. Claire Nye was formally appointed as the Chief Finance Officer and Section 73 Officer.

Learn more about the WMCA Board meeting

Scrutiny Function Undergoes Reform Amidst Budgetary Concerns

A significant portion of the WMCA Board meeting was dedicated to discussions about the authority's scrutiny function. The proposed changes aim to streamline oversight and improve effectiveness, though concerns were raised by several councillors about the potential reduction in scrutiny capacity, particularly regarding transport.

Councillor Stephen Simkins, Deputy Mayor, argued for a more integrated approach, stating, This is about proving the quality of scrutiny, not diminishing it. He highlighted the need for scrutiny to focus on outcomes and effectiveness rather than quantity, and suggested that savings from streamlining could be redirected to housing, jobs, and skills.

However, councillors like Carol Greenstone and Roger Harmer expressed reservations. Councillor Harmer noted that in Birmingham, the number of scrutiny representatives had reduced significantly, potentially impacting the ability to provide effective oversight. I'm not quite sure why less scrutiny is a good thing, he commented.

The debate touched upon the historical effectiveness of transport scrutiny, with Mayor Parker questioning its impact on addressing past deficits. The board ultimately approved recommendations to consolidate scrutiny functions, with the aim of improving efficiency and aligning with future legislative changes. The decision was made with the understanding that the quality and effectiveness of scrutiny would be prioritised, with a focus on councillors taking their roles seriously and receiving adequate support.

Learn more about the WMCA Board meeting

Other Matters

• The minutes from previous meetings of the WMCA Board, Transport Delivery Overview & Scrutiny Committee, Investment Board, Overview & Scrutiny Committee, and Audit, Risk & Assurance Committee were noted and agreed.
• The Forward Plan, outlining key decisions for the next six months, was presented.