Former Express and Star offices in Wolverhampton could become luxury flats under new scheme

If it wins approval from council planners, the scheme will see the former Express and Star offices in Queen Street turned into a mixed use development containing apartments and office space which applicants "The Newspaper Building Ltd" say will support the city's growth plans for business and culture.

A total of 38 flats are proposed for the second and third floors of the building, along with communal areas and a gym on the second floor.

The former offices of the Express and Star on Queen Street have been vacant since 2023, after the newspaper's editorial staff moved out to nearby Mander House in the centre of the city.  The site had been home to the Express and Star since the 1880s.

Wolverhampton City Council has earmarked the site as having potential for redevelopment into up to 145 for residential properties as part of its Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessment, a document which each local authority is required to produce giving an overview of potential development sites within each authority's boundary. 

A supporting statement from the developers says the proposals will blend "historical charm with modern functionality", adding that the development company has "deep roots" in the city.

"We are transforming the historic Express & Star building into The Newspaper Building, an iconic mixed-use development in Wolverhampton’s heart," said the statement. 

"This 82,000-square-foot revitalisation will include premium residential apartments, collaborative office spaces, and vibrant social venues, allowing us to create a dynamic community eco-system which supports the city’s growth plans as a hub for business, culture, and community connection. Our design blends historical charm with modern functionality to meet the needs of today’s residents, businesses, and visitors. 

"The team consists of four Wolverhampton natives, bringing together nearly 60 years of combined expertise in construction, property investment, architecture, and commercial real estate. 

"The four of us behind this project have deep roots in Wolverhampton. We grew up here, studied here, and now, we’re here to give something back to the city that shaped us."

Wolverhampton City Council will decide on the scheme in due course.