Chiefs move closer to using powers to seize derelict land in Walsall for redevelopment
Council chiefs are a step closer to snapping up land using compulsory purchase powers to push forward a town centre redevelopment programme.
Walsall Council has already given the green light to use the powers to tackle unsightly privately-owned properties which have fallen into disrepair, in a bid to create housing or other developments.
The borough devised the Willenhall Framework Plan to develop a ten-year vision for housing growth in the area.
The compulsory purchase powers will enable Walsall Council to remove derelict and disused buildings within the first phase of the plan area so that much-needed new homes can be built, along with plans to create a new area of open space.
Phase one will involve an area in and around Moat Street and Villiers Street.
A public notice states that the borough council is now ready to submit the compulsory purchase order to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities for confirmation.
It states: "If confirmed the order will authorise the acquiring authority to purchase compulsorily the land described below for the purpose of facilitating the carrying out of development, re-development and improvement on or in relation to such land through the delivery of a comprehensive residential-led development including the creation of a new area of public open space that will contribute to the promotion and improvement of the economic, social, and environmental wellbeing of the acquiring authority’s area."
Copies of the order can be viewed at Willenhall Community Library, in Walsall Street, Willenhall, Tuesdays to Fridays from 8.30am-6pm and Saturdays 9am-5pm or at Walsall Central Library and Archives, in Lichfield Street, Walsall, Mondays to Fridays from 8.30am to 6pm and Saturdays from 8.30am to 5pm.
Alternatively, view the council's website.
