Walsall Borough Housing Strategy 2026 - Key messages: Walsall local, regional and national context
- Strategic location: Walsall is a diverse, well-connected metropolitan borough at the heart of the West Midlands, pivotal to regional growth and transformation.
- Demographic change: Population is projected to grow significantly by 2040, with increasing cultural diversity and an aging demographic driving demand for varied, accessible housing and services.
- Socio-economic challenges: Walsall faces deep-rooted deprivation, health inequalities, skills gaps, and high fuel poverty—necessitating targeted housing, regeneration, and public health interventions.
- Economic profile: The local economy is diverse and growing, but GVA per head and business density lag national averages. Manufacturing, health and care, retail, and logistics are key sectors.
- Housing pressures: New housing delivery is below targets and affordability remains a challenge, with many residents excluded from home ownership. Fuel poverty and aging housing stock require urgent attention.
- Infrastructure strengths: Excellent transport connectivity (road, rail, bus) and advanced digital infrastructure position Walsall for future growth, but car ownership is lower than average, heightening the importance of public and active transport.
- Community and education: Strong community sector and green spaces support cohesion, but adult skills gaps and educational attainment below national levels present ongoing challenges.
- Regeneration and investment: £1.5 billion investment programme is driving regeneration, focusing on town centres, brownfield redevelopment, and sustainable growth.
- Regional partnerships: Walsall is a key player in West Midlands Combined Authority ambitions for housing, regeneration, and inclusive growth, leveraging devolved funding and strategic partnerships