Green Innovation Corridor first phase planning approval paves way for jobs boost

Planning permission has been granted for the first phase of the city’s pioneering Green Innovation Corridor (GIC) - being led by City of Wolverhampton Council and University of Wolverhampton.

It paves the way for the redevelopment of four brownfield sites, collectively known as Six Mile Green, located close to University of Wolverhampton Science Park.

The GIC has secured £27million capital funding from UK Government and the West Midlands Combined Authority, attaining West Midlands Investment Zone status to attract investment and create jobs focused on green construction, engineering, and digital technologies. 

The WM Investment Zone funding of £7million will be used to carry out site preparation and preconstruction works, including clearance and land remediation, at Six Mile Green by March 2027. This will support prospective developers by providing development-ready sites for design and build.

When fully developed Six Mile Green will host up to 600 high-quality jobs and apprenticeships in clean-tech, sustainable construction, cyber security, and green manufacturing and engineering.

Another 100 jobs will be created or supported during construction of the 12,000sqm of innovation and commercial buildings that will include flexible space for start-ups, growing companies and larger premises for established firms.

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

Councillor Chris Burden, City of Wolverhampton Council Cabinet Member for City Development, Jobs and Skills, said: “The council and university have an extensive track record of working together with developers and investors to deliver transformative regeneration projects.

“We are already in active discussions with businesses seeking to locate at GIC and be part of a community of innovators and planning approval now gives us the opportunity to progress those conversations and bring the Six Mile Green site forward as the first phase.

“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.”

Dr Pete Cross, University of Wolverhampton Chief Operating Officer, said: “Planning approval for Six Mile Green marks an important milestone in advancing the Green Innovation Corridor. This site has extraordinary potential to become a hub for low‑carbon industry, sustainable construction, and advanced manufacturing, right at the heart of Wolverhampton’s innovation ecosystem.

“By transforming 6.4 hectares of brownfield land into high‑quality commercial space, we are not only creating opportunities for new employers and investors, but also reinforcing the vital connections between the Springfield Campus, the Science Park and the wider city. Six Mile Green will play a key role in shaping a cleaner, greener and more resilient economy for the West Midlands.”