Canalside development in Walsall gets green light

Walsall Council’s planning committee approved a proposal by Urban Splash to build 15 new town houses and a pocket park on land near the New Art Gallery and the canal.

Representatives for the developer said the existing land was in poor condition and the scheme would enhance the area for residents and visitors.

At the meeting on January 7, Jeanette Salmon, who lives nearby, spoke out against the plans saying the loss of green space would bring a negative impact on nature and wildlife. She added the space in its current form was beneficial to people’s mental health wellbeing, especially during the current pandemic.

But members of the committee said the proposal would be an enhancement on the area and gave the green light to the scheme.

Chairman Mike Bird said plans to redevelop the nearby William House, severely damaged in an arson attack and now becoming a magnet for anti-social behaviour, into apartments were expected to come forward soon.

Andrew Johnston, from Urban Splash, said they had received grant funding of £700,000 from the West Midlands Combined Authority to bring this scheme forward

He said: “We have listened to feedback, reduced the number of homes from 20 to 15 and increased the amount of accessible open space. It would be genuinely open to the public, open all year round.

“I think the proposals will make a great addition to Walsall town centre.”

Planning Agent Max Plotnek told the committee the new homes would be created using modular construction techniques and assembled off site and delivered fully completed.

He said: “The land as it stands contributes very little to the local area. It’s function and potential as usable, inclusive and accessible public open space is considered to be limited in its current form.

“Two new areas of open space will be gifted to the residents of Walsall once the development is completed.

“The new public open space represents a much improved overall provision, being high quality, functional and flexible space to serve the area.

“It patently far outweighs the loss of the existing poor quality open space and is a tangible public benefit.

“The scheme will help regenerate this part of the waterfront and bring significant benefits for new and existing residents.”

Councillor Aftab Nawaz, who represents St Matthews ward, said: “I think this is a good application.

“That piece of land has been in disrepair for quite a while and I have had residents approach me about some of the anti-social behaviour that happens there.

“We have to also take into account that this is a town centre development and it is something we need to have more residential places within.

“The fact the quality of the land provided for the public is going to be much better is a very big positive point for me. It is something I am really pleased with.”