Plan to turn closed down Walsall pub into care home for young people

JN Healthcare Group Ltd  (JHNG) wants to transform the Butts Tavern, in Butts Street, into accommodation for up to six people, aged between 16 and 24, who have behavioural issues and learning difficulties.

The pub closed in March, prompting shocked locals to launch a petition to try to save it, which attracted support from almost 350 people.

In the application to Walsall Council planning officers, JHNG said the pub closed because it was struggling and had been on the market, as a boozer, for more than four years without attracting interest.

As well as converting the building, its plans involve the demolition of an existing outbuilding.

One member of staff would be on site at all times while others would support by working shifts.

Agents Pegasus said: “The site has been vacant since following the closure of the public house by the former owner.

“Prior to its closure, the site had been on the market for four and a half years with no interest from any party in its retention as a public house. JHNG acquired the site in May 2023.

“They are experienced in caring for young people to assist them in transitioning into adulthood whilst providing them with an appropriate level of care to suit their needs, which comprise behavioural issues and learning difficulties.

“All the young people in the care of JNHG need some form of care and assistance to assist their transition to adulthood, with the idea being that they will be able to live as independently as possible."

The agents added: “The residents will all attend school/college. Depending on their needs this may be a mainstream, educational facility, pupil referral unit or a special educational needs school as required.”

“The proposed development will be operated by the applicant, JNHG and allow them to continue growing their residential care support network providing suitable facilities and care for young people to help them with specific matters and to transition into adulthood and allow them to gain greater independence.

“This is an appropriate location for residential care provision, which will make efficient use of previously developed land, in the built-up urban area in a sustainable location ion close proximity to shops and services.”

The petition launched to save the pub said: “The truth is losing the Butts will take away a huge profitable community pub, making the area more desperate and lonely for many.

“The Butts Tavern provided the area with a hub to meet up and was beneficial all young and old, people with health conditions and impairments and all integral to the community.”