500 jobs to be created under £82 million transformation of Dudley town centre
This new image shows how Dudley's skyline is set to change as part of an £82 million plan which will create more than 500 jobs.
The artist's impression of the Portersfield development shows shops and bars linked by open plan walkways.
It is a vision for the future of Dudley assuming the long-awaited demolition of Cavendish House gets the go-ahead.
Plans have been submitted to Dudley Council by developer Avenbury and will go before the planning committee later this year.
Bosses said the eyesore building could be demolished in the autumn.
The huge development includes new shops, a cinema, bars and restaurants, a gym and accommodation for students – and will create more than 500 jobs.
Council leader Patrick Harley said: “This is a significant step towards creating a bustling town centre environment with shops, bars and restaurants.
“It still has to go through the normal planning procedure but if approved this will be the biggest development in Dudley in decades.
“This really feels like an exciting chapter for our history books, in the heart of the historic capital of the Black Country.”
An Avenbury spokesman said: “This is an extremely exciting project that will be a game changer for Dudley, alongside all of the other major infrastructure and redevelopment projects that are happening in the town.
“Dudley is finally getting the investment and recognition it deserves and we’re proud to be playing a part in shaping its future.”
When complete, Portersfield will link in with the proposed new bus station and connect with the planned £353million Midland Metro extension through the town.
The planning application to demolish the eight-storey former offices at Cavendish House has been submitted to council planners. It will be determined later this year.
However, a planning application for the wider development has not yet been submitted.
