Apartment plan for former Walsall library
A former community library building in Walsall could be converted into an apartment block if a proposal is given the go-ahead.
Plans have been submitted to Walsall Council’s planning department to extend the former Walsall Wood Library in Coppice Road and create 15 flats.
Walsall Wood Library was one of nine facilities across the borough closed by the then Labour-led administration in 2017 due to budget pressures.
The applicant, listed as Mr A Banaras, said the existing building will be extended with two additional floors added. A total of 15 car parking spaces would be provided within the development.
In the application, architects Complete Design, said the apartment block would be located close to shops, pubs, restaurants, a leisure centre and served by good public transport links.
It said: “The proposal for the site is to increase the existing building height from single storey to three storey’s and also extend the building to the north.
“Due to the predominant location of the site the proposed building has been designed to contrast from the surrounding buildings and dominate the corner of High Street and Coppice Lane.
“Adjacent the building is St Johns Church which is an equivalent height of a three storey building. The proposed building would provide continuity in high with the adjacent church.
“Within the building 15 self contained residential apartments would be created each with two bedrooms. Five apartments would be on each floor which would be accessed via two communal staircases.”
It added: “Bus routes run along High Street and Coppice Lane which provide transport links to Walsall and surrounding towns.
“The site is situated within a local centre which has a variety of shops, public houses, restaurants and convenience stores.
“Oak Park is to the East of the site which within easy walking distance. The park is public open space and also has Walsall Wood Football Club situated within the grounds.”
