Is this how Walsall town centre will look in the future?

This artist’s impression shows how the town could be regenerated for the next generation with hopes for half a billion pounds worth of investment over the next 20 years.

Pedestrianised open streets and a new arched glass entrance to the railway station could be in place in Bradford Street if this artist’s impression becomes reality.

Walsall Council’s Town Centre Masterplan is being produced to provide a framework for the long-term development of the town centre and the images show what could be achieved.

And Walsall residents have been helping the council develop a vision for Walsall town centre by taking part in an online survey.

So far more than 2,000 people have taken part, and the survey remains open until the end of the month.

The survey asks about the shopping habits and leisure pursuits of Walsall people in the context of the changes taking place across the country as the retail sector meets the challenge of online shopping.

Meanwhile the council is submitting a bid for £10 million to the Government’s Future High Streets Fund.

Deputy leader of the council, Councillor Adrian Andrew said: “‘I’ve been heartened by the response from residents who have raised both concerns and positive points that we all recognise.

"Local people are clearly passionate about their town and the council is too.

“The problems Walsall borough faces are not unique but we need to understand them if we’re to move on.

“There’s a lot of work to do and I hope residents will continue to help us as we create a borough centre we can all be proud of.”

In response to the concerns raised, the council intends to tackle issues that can be addressed in the short-term such as improving cleanliness and security in the town centre and the provision of public conveniences in the town and district centres.

Residents can find out more by logging on to the Council’s website and searching ‘Walsall Town Centre Masterplan’.