Lease of life at old school
This is how the former Bilston Girls' High School will look after a multi-million pound rebirth which will see it transformed into dozens of apartments.
The computer-generated image shows the lengths housebuilder Morris is going to restore the old school building to its former glory.
Work is now under way on the historic site which will see the Grade II listed building turned into 37 one and two-bedroom flats.
The school was originally opened in 1929 but became derelict in 1999. The site off Wellington Road had become plagued by drug addicts and littered with syringes, sparking protests among residents, who have welcomed the development.
Beverley Hall, regional sales director for Morris, said: "The school is a well-known landmark in Bilston so we wanted to create something that would retain the heritage of the site.
"We will be preserving many of its original features including its stunning façade and sash-style windows, and each property will have something unique to offer." After the school was closed in the 1970s it became a sixth-form and later a community college.
Earlier this year it was revealed historic artefacts from the former school will be given a new purpose when the apartments are finished. An original headteacher's lecturn, books, uniforms and original photographs dating back decades were brought in by former pupils and staff.
