Empty eyesore Walsall flats to undergo £800k revamp

The money will be used to transform the 10 disused three bedroom maisonettes into 10 one-bedroom units large enough for up to two people at the derelict flats above a row of shops in Stephenson Square, Beechdale.

Metal thieves had previously stripped them of boiler parts and copper pipes, causing water to flood the stores on the ground floor.

Now social housing landlord Friendship Care and Housing is investing £800,000 into the regeneration scheme that will also see new offices created at the block to compliment the scheme.

The work is due to be completed early next year.

Friendship's managing director Jonathan Driffill said: "It's our mission to bring neglected space back into use in our communities. It's been over 10 years since the flats were occupied so we are thrilled to bring these much needed homes back to Beechdale.

"The work will secure the future tenancies of the existing shops, whilst enhancing the look of the entire parade and bringing new families to the area."

Residents, traders and councillors have for years called for action to be taken to repair the homes after problems with vandals and anti-social behaviour.

Birchills-Leamore ward representative Councillor Chris Jones said: "It has been a long time coming, but we are delighted that something is being done to bring these properties back into use.

"This work is welcome as over the years the residents and the councillors campaigned for action.

"When we saw the scaffolding being put up there were cheers from people in the area."

The association is working in partnership with Walsall Council, the previous site operator, to get early nominations from prospective tenants for the accommodation. This will allow the successful applicants to move in as soon as the flats are ready.

The project is being carried out by the Longhurst Group, E&H Design Ltd and D&F Kirrane Construction Ltd.