Homes plan for old Walsall factory finally approved

Walsall Council planners have granted permission for the 14 three-bedroom and two two-bedroom houses to be built on the former British Lion Works site in Forest Lane.

Existing derelict buildings that remain on the site will be demolished to make way for the development.

This is the third time the proposal, by developer Luke Enterprises, has gone before Walsall’s planners in the last 18 months.

It was initially considered in June last year but the plans were amended to address parking issues that had been raised.

It went back before the authority’s planning committee in February this year where it was approved subject to a section 106 agreement being completed to ensure the nearby canal boundary was maintained.

And, after negotiations with the developers, officers have reached an agreement and granted approval for the scheme to be brought forward.

As well as the new homes, parking provision and an access road is going to be created for the incoming residents.

Back in February, officers said they believed this plan would revitalise what is a vacant industrial site and improve the area for residents living nearby and the area has previously been earmarked for apartments.

The developer’s agents Zebra Architects said: “As an edge of town redevelopment, the proposal is inherently sustainable.

“The site is within a short walking distance from an excellent range of amenities.

“A good range of buses are available within a short walk from the site, minimising any dependency on the motor car.”