Lichfield is entering a new era. Once home to a bustling Debenhams, the site on Birmingham Road is now transforming into a leisure-led plaza, anchored by an Everyman Cinema and surrounded by dining spaces, green public areas and high-quality paving.
For local homeowners, investors and future sellers, this is more than just an upgrade in amenities – it’s a major sign that property values in the Cathedral Quarter and surrounding streets are on the rise.
What is leisure-led regeneration?
Leisure-led regeneration is the process of breathing new life into city centres by focusing on entertainment, culture, food and public space – rather than traditional retail alone. In Lichfield, this means replacing underused buildings with a new reason to visit, live, and stay local.
The new Everyman Cinema will be joined by restaurants and landscaped areas, turning a once-empty retail unit into a vibrant hub.
Why the Birmingham Road development matters
This project is a key pillar of the Lichfield city centre regeneration 2026 plan. It’s designed to:
- Encourage more foot traffic into the city centre
- Create a lifestyle offer to rival nearby commuter cities
- Support evening economy jobs and investment
These changes don’t just benefit business. They have a direct impact on nearby residential values, especially within walking distance of the development.
Book a free valuation with Hunters Lichfield
Where are house prices rising fastest in Lichfield?
While price growth has slowed in some parts of the UK, Lichfield is bucking the trend:
- Average home value (early 2026): £328,000
- Annual growth rate: 2.3%, compared to 1.5% regionally
- Top performing streets: St John Street, Sandford Street, Frog Lane, The Friary
Homes near the Cathedral and Birmingham Road are especially in demand. Buyers are drawn to the blend of walkability, culture and long-term growth.
What buyers are looking for in 2026
Local estate agents are seeing a clear pattern in what drives viewings and offers:
- Energy-efficient homes with EPC ratings of C or better
- Properties within 10 minutes’ walk of the cinema plaza or train station
- Character homes that blend old and new (especially around Cathedral Walk)
- Flats with outside space or balcony views over green public areas
If your home ticks any of these boxes, 2026 could be your best chance to sell at a premium.
What about landlords and investors?
This type of regeneration is particularly appealing to renters. For landlords, that means:
- Fewer voids due to increased demand
- Stronger rents, particularly for high-spec city apartments
- Attractive tenant profiles including professionals and down-sizers
As the plaza nears completion, tenant interest in Cathedral Quarter flats is expected to increase.
Learn about our fully managed lettings service
Birmingham Road development update: What’s next?
As of Q1 2026, the development is entering final-stage construction. Key progress includes:
- Structural completion of the cinema building
- Paving and landscaping work underway
- Commercial units now leasing to food and drink operators
- Anticipated opening: late summer 2026
This timeline creates a strong window for those thinking of listing their home before the official launch, while interest is already building.
How regeneration increases value
Buyers are happy to pay more when an area offers:
- More reasons to visit and stay
- Public space that feels safe and welcoming
- Evening and weekend lifestyle appeal
The new plaza checks all these boxes. It also reduces dependence on Birmingham for leisure, helping Lichfield retain more of its own spending power – a good sign for investors and sellers alike.
Spotlight: St John Street
Just a 5-minute walk from the new development, St John Street has become a mini hotspot.
- Strong demand for Georgian and Victorian homes
- Walkable to both the train station and cinema
- Active buyer interest from Birmingham-based commuters
Property here now commands a premium of up to £250 per square foot, with sale times under 4 weeks for well-presented homes.
What makes now a good time to act?
- Buyer interest is already rising ahead of the cinema launch
- The number of homes for sale is still below pre-2020 levels
- Mortgage rates are stable and affordability has improved
Whether you’re a homeowner, landlord or investor, it makes sense to understand what your property is worth in this new local context.
Start with a free local valuation
Why choose Hunters Lichfield?
- Local knowledge of city centre micro-markets
- Marketing that highlights walkability and lifestyle value
- Fully compliant and proactive property management
We help homeowners and landlords in Lichfield move forward with confidence – especially when the market is moving fast.
