Security boost backed at G4S base in Walsall

The cash management company part of G4S said it needed to implement a number of “critical” new measures.

G4S Cash Solutions wanted to bring in security improvements at its building in Fryers Road, in Bloxwich.

The company’s agent Inderjit Shokar said the changes would bring about essential improvements to G4S’ Walsall operation.

He said: “G4S has identified a critical need for several measures in order to protect and enhance operational efficiency and security at its Walsall base located within a wider industrial/commercial estate.

“To do this, this planning application proposes some essential works to the site.

“Firstly, the applicant is seeking permission to demolish/remove the existing ‘white coloured’ small control building/gatehouse located near to the main vehicle entrance behind security fencing.

“This is in poor condition and unnecessarily taking up valuable space within the site as the intention is to relocate the control facility to within the main facility.

“The applicant is proposing the installation of a second vehicle gate and secure vehicle enclosure, located next to (and mimicking) the existing enclosure zone situated immediately behind the entrance security gate.

“To accommodate the new gate and second secure zone, the applicant is proposing minor reconfiguration to the vehicle entrance area to ensure satisfactory visibility splays and safety standards are maintained.

“The applicant is proposing a new and separate dedicated pedestrian entrance via turnstile, located on the western boundary of the site connecting to the pedestrian footpath on Fryers Road.

“The existing roller shutters on the south-east elevation of the building are no longer fit for purpose and in poor condition.

“As such, the applicant proposes to install new replacement shutters in like for like locations.”

The scheme was granted permission by Walsall Council's planning department.

It is subject to a number of conditions.