Scheme for canalside homes in new phase

The second phase of multi-million pound plans to transform the Brownhills canalside and build 80 new homes is now under way.

The ambitious plans include improving the High Street by creating new residential developments and renovating nearby blocks of flats. The second phase of the Walsall

Housing Group scheme for 33 properties has now started and includes a mix of houses and apartments. The majority of which will be let by the housing group for affordable rent.

Another 47 homes are being created on the site and are due to be completed this summer. More than £3 million is being spent on the regeneration plans near to the Wyrley and Essington Canal which are earmarked to all be finished by spring 2013.

Carole Wildman, director of regeneration and development at the housing association, said: "Beginning phase two is a significant milestone in this cosmopolitan, canalside development.

"The scheme is taking shape as an attractive gateway into the town and will provide much-needed homes for Brownhills."

The improvements are within walking distance of the town centre and are been jointly funded by Walsall Housing Group and the Homes and Communities Agency.

The second phase of the housing scheme is being lead through partner's Mansell's. Simon Liversage said: "We are delighted to be involved in such an important development, working in partnership with Walsall Housing Group to deliver new homes that are vital to the regeneration of this area."

Over the road from the site WHG are also making improvements to Humphries House and Severn House blocks of flats. They are transforming the blocks and reducing the carbon footprint of the buildings, which date back to the 1960s.

The programme includes fixing thermal cladding to the outside of the buildings, installing double glazed windows, replacing the roofs and internal decoration.

The project is on track to be finished by summer.