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The HISTORY of REDDITCH New Town

and popularity of the centre vindicates all the efforts made. It became clear that to provide
a complete and balanced facility necessitated a centre of sub-regional scale and the size
of the Kingfisher Shopping Centre reflects the needs of the additional population
catchment, without the tempting alternatives of out-of-centre hypermarkets

To broaden the work opportunities for residents, the Corporation have steadfastly
promoted the offices sector. In 1974 there was great elation to have attracted the
proposed European headquarters of the Sentry Insurance Company of America. This
company proposed an extensive and exceptional standard of accommodation, including
sporting facilities available to the public, and would have demonstrated the national and
international importance of Redditch as a location for offices. The site proposed was in a
woodland setting and whilst the appropriate planning permissions were obtained from
the Secretary of State, the adverse reaction from the Local Authority to losing some part
of the wood so discouraged the Company, which had put much emphasis on local
empathy, that having crossed the final hurdle, the company abandoned Redditch and
have located in another New Town.
The Corporation also held an earnest desire, shared by the Local Authorities and
representative groups, to establish a Community House from which many charitable and
social groups could function in mutual support. After very considerable homework it was
disappointing to all to have to abandon the project because of the financial structures
that were placed on it.
A third disappointment was the failure, after a public inquiry, to obtain approval for the
extension of the Alcester Highway to the south linked with the opening up of the related
employment area at Green Lane. This infrastructure and employment potential would
have given the town a stronger base for stimulating the medium and long term local and
regional economy.

Areas of rapid growth necessarily have buildings of great similarity and style, but the
Corporation's low key approach to design when associated with a truly exceptional
standard of landscaping, ensures a mellow physical environment which gives Redditch
its individual quality.
The diversification in the local economy and the recently designated 'assisted area' status
will ensure the longer term stability of the town and the shopping and recreational facilities
will guarantee a social life of great quality and satisfaction.
In transport terms the town has an enviable bus service which should continue a level
of convenience above that to be expected of such a town. The 115 miles of road
constructed. together with measures for pedestrian segregation provides an exceptionally
safe pedestrian and highway network, unburdened by traffic congestion.
The many social groups which have been stimulated and encouraged should also provide
a community cohesiveness able to cope with the rigours of post Corporation life.

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