Sutton Coldfield is about seven miles northeast of Birmingham, the second largest city in the UK, a global manufacturing powerhouse once known as ‘the workshop of the world’. Sutton Coldfield itself is an extremely affluent area of Birmingham, which dates to the Bronze Age.
In the 15th century, thanks to the influence of Bishop Vesey, Henry VIII granted Sutton Coldfield a Charter of Incorporation. This charter allowed the town to govern its own affairs. Bishop Vesey made the town prosperous by using his wealth and influence to build houses, schools, and business infrastructure. By the 18th century Sutton Coldfield was a thriving manufacturing centre producing spades, gun barrels, blades, knives, axes and more. This prosperity led to the construction of elegant manors and other large properties.
Today, Sutton Coldfield is still a sought-after residential area, which ranks highly on national quality of life surveys. The town reports above average household income levels, well-performing schools, and beautiful houses. The surrounding countryside is stunning with great walks and picnic locations in Sutton Park and New Hall Valley Country Park.
Mere Green, where our office is located, is a commercial centre in the middle of Sutton Coldfield. Five centuries ago, it was a patch waste ground surrounded by farmland. By 1811 there were just a couple of blacksmith’s workshops, a wheelwright and a nailer. Ten years later development began as schools, elmshouses, cottages and shops began to be built.
Mere Green now is a thriving hub of independent shops, restaurants, bars and large supermarkets including Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s and Waitrose. There is also a growing business community. It is a sought-after residential area with a buzzing community centre and library at its heart. There are a range of classes, sports and social groups on offer for people of all ages.