Walsall homes go-ahead thanks to £1m aid
Long-awaited plans for almost 100 new homes in Walsall can go ahead after funding for the project was secured. Proposals to build the properties have been in the pipeline for more than four years.
The site between Beddows Road and Rutland Street, Ryecroft, was earmarked for a residential scheme by Walsall Housing Group and Lovell Partnership Ltd after 29 homes were pulled down in 2007.
However, negotiations ended when the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) withdrew funding.
The HCA has now stumped up a grant of just over £1 million for 98 homes, as long as more than 68 per cent are classed as affordable.
Walsall Council has also agreed to sell its land for £30,000 – around £20,000 short of its true value – so the scheme can get under way.
A report from principal estates surveyor James Ring to the council said: "Significant funding is now being provided by the Homes and Communities Agency based on a revised planning scheme to provide more affordable housing."
