Police probe as arsonists hit old factory again

Fire crews were called to the former Mal Pressing Ltd in Stringes Lane on Tuesday afternoon after a fire broke out at the site, nearly a year after a previous arson attack.

Last March, around 50 per cent of the building, which has become a magnet for vandalism in recent years, was damaged in an arson attack. It was also hit by fire in 2010.

West Midlands Fire Service spokesman Matthew Smith said: "Fire crews received a 999 call called to Stringes Lane at 2.42pm on Tuesday.

"We sent two fire engines, both from Walsall, containing 10 firefighters.

"The fire was contained in just over an hour using two hose reels and crews left before 4pm. It is arson and the issue has been passed over to West Midlands Police."

The blaze has led to calls from a local councillor for regeneration work to be carried out across the town in an effort to reduce arson attacks.

Recent arson attacks or fires across Willenhall include the Allens Centre on Hilton Road last autumn and the derelict Legge factory on Stafford Street a few weeks ago.

Around 60 firefighters tackled the huge blaze at the derelict Legge Locks factory in Stafford Street on February 9.

Councillor Adam Hicken who represents the Willenhall North ward, said: "There has been a recent increase in arson attacks taking place across the area and most of these have occurred in derelict buildings.

"Willenhall seems to be a hot-spot for these attacks at the moment, which is quite concerning. I don't know if it is one offender carrying out these different attacks but either way, it needs looking into by the police.

"In terms of what the council can do, we have been discussing the Willenhall Regeneration Plan for some time and I believe that needs to take into account the number of derelict buildings we have.

"By looking to get investment and change these buildings, we can decrease the risk of arson and make a positive change in the area."

Earlier this week it was revealed that A former pub in Walsall left derelict after a devastating arson attack five years ago is in line for demolition after plans were approved to replace it with flats.

The Bull's Head in Bloxwich has been shut since 2007 and was hit by arsonists in 2011.