Regeneration
Prosperous Places and Investment report highlights busy year in Walsall’s regeneration journey
Published on
On Monday 29 September, Councillor Adrian Andrew, Deputy Leader of Walsall Council, will present his portfolio holder report to Council, showcasing the remarkable progress made over the past year.
The borough of Walsall is in the middle of a £1.5billion programme of transformation; delivering a bold future built on proud foundations.
From new homes and cutting-edge employment spaces to revitalised town and district centres and improved transport links, Walsall Council is delivering a bold vision for growth.
“ Walsall is open for business. We’re unlocking major employment sites, attracting investment, and laying the groundwork for a borough that meets the needs of our communities and businesses. Through bold interventions and strategic partnerships, we’re building a Walsall that’s ready to thrive.
It’s great to reflect on the progress that’s been made over the past 12 months, and to look ahead to the future and what’s still to come. Major regeneration like this takes time, but the progress so far has been incredible “
Over the last 12 months, construction has started at SPARK, which will be Walsall’s largest employment site. This 620,000 sq ft manufacturing and logistics hub is on track to deliver its first two units by year-end, with further development beginning in early 2026. SPARK is expected to attract significant investment and create hundreds of new jobs.
Nearby, Total Park at Bentley Lane has secured planning permission for 422,000 sq ft of premium employment space. Together, these developments are propelling Walsall toward 2million sq ft of new employment floorspace, reinforcing Walsall’s role as a key player in the West Midlands economy.
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. Over the last 12 months the council completed an extensive Compulsory Purchase Order of 21,000 square meters of land to deliver new housing. Keepmoat Homes Ltd will begin demolition soon, making way for new homes in the area spanning from Villiers Street to Moat Street/Newhall Street and Stafford Street and Temple Bar.
The Connected Gateway scheme, backed by £11.4 million in Government funding, will enhance connectivity and breathe new life into Walsall town centre. Work has already begun to transform the Saddlers Shopping Centre, creating an improved arrival experience, and a new plaza that will better link the town centre’s public transport hubs will begin construction in the New Year.
The council is also investing in spaces that empower residents to learn, grow and succeed, bringing new opportunities for adult learners and entrepreneurs to gain skills or grow small businesses. The Guildhall in Walsall Town Centre is in the process of being transformed into a Creative Industries Enterprise Centre, whilst the former Marks & Spencer in the Saddlers Shopping Centre will be the site of a brand-new adult learning facility, run by Walsall College.
In Bloxwich, the recently opened Bloxwich Launchpad is already supporting local people to access digital skills support and providing a vital space for small businesses to grow. On its opening day on Monday 8 September, Bloxwich Launchpad saw over 40 people through the door with 4 local businesses setting up home in the first floor business incubation centre.
The council’s ambitious plans for the future will build on the borough’s strengths to achieve further growth through new investment and development, delivering new homes, more jobs and a brighter future for the borough.
With strong foundations and a clear vision, the borough is ready to seize new opportunities and shape a prosperous tomorrow.
