Former Darlaston brickworks site could be transformed in 200-home plan
A former brickworks and mine shaft which has since become a target for vandals could be transformed into a 207-home estate under new plans.
Countryside Properties has submitted an application to build a major scheme at Heathfield Lane West, Darlaston, to Walsall Council.
The 18 acre site, which is bordered by the Walsall Canal and Black Country New Road on its western edge, used to be home to Baggot’s Bridge Brick Works in the early 1900s which later became Jubilee Brick Works and Herbert’s Pork Pottery Works, by the 1930s and then more recently Wards Pottery.
Other parts of the plot were used as a landfill which was operated by Moxley Ltd from 1977.
Councillor Paul Bott, who represents Darlaston South, said: “It is a very historic site but it has been vandalised and fly-tipped desperately.
“We need more housing so I welcome the application with reservations.
“There has been so many false dawns with this site, there has been application after application, and none have become a reality. So this application is positive we just hope they take residents views on board.”
Councillor Bott added: “Residents are concerned where the traffic is is going to exit the site.
“There is also a big issue with Wards Pool. Residents use it for fishing, it’s part of the site and we want it to stay, they can’t drain it.
“I would like to see a wildlife trail along the Walsall Canal and we need some play equipment for the youngsters.”
As statement from Countryside Properties said: “The overall vision for the land at Heathfield Lane has evolved through a process of on site analysis, assessment of the constraints, and discussions with Walsall Council to realize the potential of the site and meet the needs of the local community.
“The proposals present an opportunity to revitalise a currently vacant site and provide quality, family accommodation within the locality.”
The firm added: “The development will provide an attractive, high quality designed environment to live.
“The scale and character of the proposals will ensure that the scheme will contribute to and enhance the immediate and surrounding area.”
