GENSOCIAL
Major plans have been submitted for a multi-million pound regeneration scheme which will see hundreds of new homes built in the heart of Wolverhampton’s historic Canalside Quarter.
The £65 million proposal from build-to-rent developer Placefirst would see 370 new homes constructed on land off Lower Horseley Fields in the city centre – close to Wolverhampton’s new £150 million transport interchange.
The scheme will deliver the first phase of a canal-side community, providing a mix of town houses and new-build apartments across five acres of brownfield land.
The proposed development will also include the creation of a new promenade, public open spaces, landscaping and the restoration of listed buildings as well as new pedestrian access to the canal towpath.
Salford-based Placefirst has worked collaboratively with the City of Wolverhampton Council and undertook an online public consultation ahead of the submission of its plans.
Discussions have also taken place with the Canal and River Trust and West Midlands Combined Authority.
David Mawson, chief executive for Placefirst said: “With having delivered major regeneration schemes in the north of England, we’re really excited that our first proposed development in the Midlands will be transformational for such a prominent heritage location.
“The vision for this Canalside development is more than new build homes, as our focus is on opening up the canal for public use and creating a thriving community in the heart of the city centre.
“We’ve worked closely with the local council and engaged the local community to propose what we feel will be a stunning waterside residential scheme that will unearth the true potential of this historic brownfield site, close to Wolverhampton’s newly opened transport interchange.”
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Councillor Stephen Simkins, cabinet member for city economy, said: “These plans are aimed at delivering a major residential waterside scheme in our city centre.
“Regeneration of Canalside is a large and exciting opportunity that will require determined and skilful leadership by the council and partners to realise the opportunity.
“This planning application for a nationally significant development at this wonderful heritage location shows investment in Wolverhampton remains strong and that is critical to our recovery from Covid-19 and relighting our city.”
