A planning application has been submitted by City of Wolverhampton Council and University of Wolverhampton for the first phase of the city’s pioneering Green Innovation Corridor (GIC).

The GIC will connect key assets at the University of Wolverhampton’s Springfield Campus, Science Park, and the i54 advanced manufacturing business park – the country’s most successful Enterprise Zone.

It will introduce new commercial and business opportunities for development, incubation space, grow on space for SMEs and space for larger use.

The GIC has already secured £27 million capital funding from UK Government and has attained West Midlands Investment Zone status, helping unlock transformational capital funding, business support and skills programmes.

Following public consultation on the first phase designs, a hybrid planning application has been put forward for the redevelopment of 4 brownfield sites, collectively known as Six Mile Green, located close to University of Wolverhampton Science Park.

It comprises detailed plans for ground remediation, site clearance, service infrastructure and enabling works and outline plans for new buildings providing around 20,000sqm of mixed use commercial floorspace.

If the plans are approved, then WM Investment Zone funding will be used to carry out preconstruction works by March 2027, which will support prospective developers by providing development ready sites for design and build construction.

Councillor Chris Burden, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “It is fitting that this critical planning application has been submitted in the middle of Wolverhampton Business Week, which this year is highlighting the importance of skills, growth and innovation in the city.

“The Green Innovation Corridor will drive the Green Industrial Revolution, building upon Wolverhampton’s sustainable construction, green credentials and circular economy for transformation that will create quality jobs and training opportunities for local people.

“Securing planning approval is an important step in bringing forward Six Mile Green, so we can begin enabling works and ultimately attract developer interest.”

Pete Cross, Chief Operating Officer, University of Wolverhampton said: “The submission of the first phase planning application for Six Mile Green marks a significant step forward in realising the vision of the Green Innovation Corridor. This transformative initiative will unlock new opportunities for collaboration, investment, and sustainable growth across the region.

"As a founding partner, the University of Wolverhampton is committed to driving innovation and skills development that support the transition to a net zero economy. The Corridor will strengthen our existing hubs at Science Park and Springfield Campus, and the development of Six Mile Green will further enhance our ability to attract high value industries and create meaningful career pathways for our communities.

"We look forward to continuing our work with the City of Wolverhampton Council and wider stakeholders to bring this ambitious programme to life."