Apartments plan for vandal-hit pub in Willenhall which closed due to Covid impact
A ‘dilapidated’ old pub which fell victim to Covid could be converted into new housing in Willenhall.
An applicant, listed as Mr Kang, has put forward proposals to Walsall Council planners to create six new apartments within the former Prince of Wales pub on Walsall Street.
The pub was closed for business due to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic and representatives for the developer said the building has been left in a state of neglect.
They also said it was rife for vandalism, adding the redevelopment of the venue breathe new life into the area and provide much needed housing.
If the proposal is given the go ahead, there will be a total of six apartments, three of which are one-bedroom, two with two bedrooms, and one studio flat.
Agents JBVJ Architects said: “The current condition of the site is not befitting of a public house, available for use by the general public.
“The derelict and dilapidated state of the site has lead the site and building into a state of neglect, and thus us not fit for purpose or safe for public use in its current state.
“The lack of surveillance and activity in and around the site has created a prime spot for vandalism, and is in much need of enhanced natural surveillance.
“The regeneration of the whole site will create a site more befitting of the area.
The public house is deteriorating, and will continue to do so until it is redeveloped.
“The dilapidated and derelict nature of the site takes away from the character of the area, and provides the potential for a landmark new residential development to rejuvenate the surrounding context.
“In essence the proposal seeks to reinvigorate what once was an attractive site, by providing a high quality residential development and landscape works that creates a character site that is more in keeping with its context.
“We are confident that the approach has been carefully considered to ensure the site conforms to the areas character, materiality, housing needs, pedestrian routes and security.
“The extent of the built form within the proposal does not detract from the character of the site, and through an informed approach we have ensured that the main external façade of the existing structure remains relatively unchanged.
“Through appropriate analysis and design development, the proposal will provide a new positive contribution to the street scene, reflective of what it used to offer, and offers economic benefits and high quality housing contributing to the growth of Walsall.
“Creating a high quality residential development will not only fit in well with the existing architectural context, but will also address the issues of the site and enhance the street frontage drastically.
“In addition to this it will contribute to the housing demand and provide much need character homes within the area.”
