Express & Star

Plans to improve run-down Wednesbury estate take next step

Plans to transform a neglected area of Wednesbury are moving forward – with the council looking to approve the next stage.

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A neglected area of Wednesbury is due to be given a makeover

Council bosses are planning to demolish an existing row of derelict shops on Carrington Road – to make way for a three-storey block of 17 apartments.

The move comes as part of a wider redevelopment scheme, led by Sandwell Council.

The plans for the Carrington Road and School Road areas of the Friar Park estate are part of the council's proposals to transform the area.

These include the demolition of the remaining dilapidated shops, building new council homes and providing a modern new shop unit to replace existing buildings on the estate.

Cabinet hope to approve the next phase of the development in early March - demolishing the existing run-down shops on Carrington Road - to make way for a three-storey block of 17 flats.

Under these proposals, some of the shops may have to be compulsorily purchased so the existing site can be cleared for redevelopment.

Planning permission has already been given for the building of 10 new bungalows along with other improvements in Friardale Close, together with a new 225 square metre retail block featuring shops, 20 two-bedroom apartments and a parking court, all on School Road.

Councillor Wasim Ali, Sandwell Council's cabinet member with responsibility for inclusive economic growth, said: "We're working closely with residents, local businesses and ward members to bring about this much-needed and much-wanted redevelopment.

"People have told us they want investment in the area and a mix of council-owned bungalows and apartments, and a new modern retail shop.

"The redevelopment will create a more vibrant place for existing residents in Friar Park and offer a new positive environment to attract new residents into the area.”

Councillor Joanne Hadley, cabinet member for homes, added: "This is an important project to deliver much-needed new homes and wider improvements for people in Friar Park."