A major regeneration site in Aston, Birmingham, has been bought by regional development agency Advantage West Midlands.

The 12-acre site, known locally as the Serpentine, includes the derelict Aston Tavern as well as Aston Events Centre. Advantage West Midlands has now taken ownership of the site and will be working with partners to draw up plans for its future use based around the needs of the Aston community.

The emerging Aston, Newtown and Lozells Action Plan earmarks the Serpentine site for leisure, cultural and mixed use and although the details are yet to be finalised, the final use for the site will incorporate these elements.

Mick Laverty, Advantage West Midlands’ deputy chief executive, said: “One of the major barriers to regeneration in Aston has been the absence of any major development sites which could act as a catalyst for the rest of the community. This is a key piece of land in the middle of one of the neediest communities of Birmingham and it was vital we stepped in to make sure it is used productively.”