Regeneration
Council acquires first derelict building in Willenhall as development moves a step closer
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Walsall Council has today taken ownership of the first building in Willenhall that sits within the Council’s Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO) boundary.
The compulsory purchase of over 21,000 square meters of land in Willenhall was confirmed in November 2024 and the derelict building on Newhall Street is the first site that the council has acquired following the CPO process.
The CPO area, spanning from Villiers Street to Moat Street/Newhall Street and Stafford Street and Temple Bar, includes a number of derelict and disused sites that pose a danger to the public, and have been the centre of antisocial behaviour in recent years.
“ It is great news that we have taken ownership of the first building within our CPO boundary in Willenhall. It has been a long process to get to this point and it shows that we, as a Council, are committed to using our powers to bring these much-needed developments forward for our residents.
In May we expect to have acquired all the sites that we need to so we can start work with Keepmoat to deliver new housing. This is huge step forward on delivering a great future for Willenhall while having an eye on our proud history “
“ At Keepmoat we’re proud to be working alongside Walsall Council as we continue to build on our successful partnership.
The 107 high-quality, new homes being delivered in Willenhall will provide fantastic housing stock for local people. As experts in transforming brownfield land, the team at Keepmoat are thrilled to be regenerating this derelict site with the local authority to breathe new life into the area. “
Willenhall has been identified as a key area of sustainable growth within the West Midlands Region due to the imminent arrival of a new train station in the town and opportunities to deliver housing growth.
Outline planning permission was granted on 16 July 2024 for the demolition of existing structures on land at Moat Street, Temple Bar, Cemetery Road, Villiers Street and New Hall Street, Willenhall and the development of up to 54 apartments, 53 houses and retention of local listed building for residential purposes, associated junction improvements and car parking, the creation of new public open space and all associated ancillary works.
Acquisition of all the sites within the CPO area is expected to be complete in May and will enable Walsall Council to bring forward the sites for development into new housing and open space, working with appointed developer Keepmoat.
Walsall Council received funding from the Government through the former Levelling Up Fund, as well as funding from the West Midlands Combined Authority, to begin delivery of the Willenhall Framework Plan.
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