Dozens of homes earmarked for old school site in Darlaston disused for 30 years

Developer Sarwan Samrai has put forward proposals to Walsall Council to create 45 apartments and houses on land on Joynson Street, at the junction of Old Park Road.

The site was once home to Kings Hill JMI School but was closed and subject to a suspected arson attack in 1992, which led to its demolition.

If the proposal is granted, there will be 35 units newly built made up of a new 29-apartment block, the building of four houses and the conversion of an existing building on site to create an additional two new flats.

A total of 48 parking spaces and a bin store, private gardens and landscaping will also be created as part of the development.

Officers are recommending members of Walsall Council’s planning committee approve the proposal subject to conditions when it meets next Monday.

Agents Design Studio Architects said: “The proposed apartment scheme will both complement and continue the existing features of the surrounding context.

“The height proportion and orientation are both respectful to the adjacent buildings. The function as houses and apartments provide an attractive development in a sought after area.

“We believe that the proposed development will provide not only an attractive appearance but also a better use of site, more housing and car park spaces, while retaining the valuable historical building on site.

“It will contribute to the promotion of sustainability and deliver a new high quality development to Walsall.”

In a report to committee, officers said: “The application site is allocated for housing and the principle of residential development at the site is therefore acceptable.

“The layout and appearance of the development is in keeping with the character of the area and the standard of amenity provided by the new dwellings is acceptable.

“No significant impact on neighbour amenity has been identified and no objections from local residents have been received.

“The outstanding issues in relation to highways safety and ground conditions can be resolved via amendments to the scheme and the recommended planning conditions.

“In addition, the council’s lack of five-year housing land supply affords additional weight in the decision making process and it is acknowledged that the proposal will contribute to housing targets in the region.

“The overall benefits of the scheme are therefore considered to be significant and will outweigh any harm the proposal will cause.

“Taking into account the above factors it is considered that the application should be recommended for approval.”