100 homes planned for derelict Coseley factory

Darkhouse Properties (Jersey) Ltd has submitted plans for the scheme on the site off Darkhouse Lane, Coseley. Around 108 properties would replace the existing derelict former factory buildings.

The scheme has won the backing of planning officers at Dudley Council, who say the development would 'substantially' improve the appearance of the run down site.

The developer said the site had been earmarked for employment use but has remained vacant for some time. Bosses say the site has attracted anti-social behaviour problems during the evenings.

But a final decision will be made by councillors at a meeting on Monday next week.

In a report, case officer Nicholas Howell says: "The principle of residential use and the access to the proposed development are considered to be acceptable, with all other matters being reserved for consideration.

"With careful design considerations the appearance of this site can be substantially improved, enhancing visual amenity and the street scene."

The developer will have to submit full designs for the scheme to the council at a later date. This will include the appearance, landscaping, layout and scale of the properties. As part of the work, a number of schemes to improve road safety in the area, including widening footpaths along Darkhouse Lane, would also be carried out.

The council's highways team says this would improve safety for children walking to school. There would also be a 'buffer' created between the homes and the nearby industrial premises.

Some 74 letters were sent out to residents during the public consultation period and no objections to the scheme were received in return.

Meanwhile councillors will also be making a decision on plans for new homes in Halesowen.

Proposals have been lodged by Ling Developments Limited for three properties earmarked for land off Stourbridge Road.

The terraced houses would each have three bedrooms over three levels.

Three letters of objection have been submitted with concerns including fears neighbouring properties could be overlooked.

Outline planning permission has already been approved for the scheme, which would be built on former industrial land. Council officers are recommending that the detailed plans are approved.