Go-ahead given for homes at historic Halesowen site

Despite more than 1,000 people opposing the scheme, the Grade-II listed buildings in Great Cornbow and Hagley Street in Halesowen will be transformed into 24 apartments, a cafe and orangery under the proposals.

The plans will also see the landmark James Hobbs hardware shop refurbished.

Twenty-one letters of objection had been sent to Dudley Council, as well as two petitions with a total of 1,060 signatures.

However, members of the authority’s development control committee said that a site visit had proved to them that the decision to approve the plans was the right one to make.

Councillor Andrea Goddard, chair of the committee, said: “I did have concerns about the plans, particularly because of the amount of objections registered.

“However, when I visited the site, my thoughts changed considerably.

“I didn’t want us to lose a valuable listed building however, I noticed that it was really close to the point of disrepair.”

“That was sad to see when the buildings hold so much history.

“I believe that these plans will preserve the site and bring something new to the area, so I am all for it.

The main issues raised were that there were already enough cafes and food outlet, however committee members were recommended to approve the plans as officers said they would ‘provide a long-term sustainable future for a number of listed buildings’.

Councillor Paul Bradley echoed the chair’s comments after also attending the site visit, saying: “I had my reservations but to be honest when I got to the site, the situation with the deterioration of the site was explained to me and I could see for myself that something needed to be done.

“I now think it is a good scheme.

“The buildings are in need of extensive repair and its historical value means we should take advantage of this opportunity to see it brought back to life.”

All votes cast at the meeting on Tuesday were in favour of the scheme.