Willenhall regeneration moves a step closer as council secures second property using CPO powers
The transformation of Willenhall has taken another step forward this week as Walsall Council takes ownership of a second site as part of the town’s masterplan.
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Walsall Council was awarded a Compulsory Purchase Order in November 2024, giving it powers to take on derelict properties across Villiers Street, Moat Street, New Hall Street, Stafford Street and Temple Bar.
The authority plans to demolish the mostly derelict buildings which have posed a danger to the public and been the centre of antisocial behaviour in recent years.
In July 2024, outline planning permission was granted to demolish the buildings and replace them with 107 homes.
Property developer Keepmoat has been appointed by the council to deliver the project.
This week the council has confirmed the acquisition of the second property, 112-114 Newhall Street, which was previously a mechanics.
Spearheading the scheme is deputy leader and portfolio holder for regeneration, councillor Adrian Andrew.
Councillor Andrew had previously vowed that demolition works would start ‘in the new year’.
But now the council has said acquisition of all the sites is expected to be complete by next month.
Willenhall has been identified as a key area of sustainable growth within the West Midlands region due to the new railway station and opportunities to deliver housing growth.
Councillor Andrew said: “It’s great to see the plans for Willenhall progressing, and now that we’ve taken ownership of yet another site we are one step closer to bringing much-needed new housing forward for our residents.
“In May we expect to have completed the acquisition of all of the sites within our CPO boundary so we can start work with Keepmoat to deliver high quality new homes.
“This is a huge step forward on delivering a great future for Willenhall while having an eye on our proud history.”
