Revamp of closed pub site ahead
Long-awaited proposals to revamp a troubled former Wolverhampton pub that was shut down after a man was shot have taken a step closer to reality.
Wolverhampton-based property consultancy First City have announced it had submitted a planning application for the scheme to transform the Waggon & Horses on Cannock Road, and revealed these images of what it could look like once it is completed.
The proposal involves knocking down the pub and redeveloping the site to form three retail units and a convenience store.
A national supermarket operator has been identified to run the store, although developers are still keeping tight-lipped about which one. Seven new two bedroom apartments are also being proposed for the upper floors.
The pub became the first in the city to be ordered to close for good by licensing bosses last year.
This came after a catalogue of trouble, including gun crime, fights, a riot involving 30 people and drug use.
More than 270 residents signed a petition calling for its permanent closure and it was shut during summer last year.
First City spokesman Neil Hazlehurst said: "We are extremely pleased to be able to submit these exciting proposals for what is currently a dilapidated site.
"The pub caused a significant nuisance to local residents and this is the first step in securing some much needed development.
"We have considered reusing the existing building, which we could do without applying for planning permission, but the new proposals allow a higher quality, more sustainable development on this prominent site.
"The development will provide retail facilities as well as accommodating new homes and really will be a fresh start for this troublesome site."
The plans will be considered by Wolverhampton City Council and it is hoped that a decision will be made by autumn.
If approval is granted it is expected that work will start in the early part of next year.
