Plans for derelict Bloxwich pub site expected next month
Plans to transform the derelict site of a former pub in Bloxwich are expected to be announced next month.
The land on Cresswell Crescent, where the Leathern Bottle once stood, has been a hotspot for anti-social behaviour since it closed 15 years ago.
SEP Properties was granted planning permission in 2012 to demolish the pub and replace it with a block of nine flats, retail shops and a pub. The building was demolished but there is no evidence of any construction work at the site. Security boards around the boundary have stood for several years.
Bloxwich West councillor Michael Coulson brought the topic to full council on Monday to ask if Walsall Council would consider a compulsory purchase of the development. He branded the lack of action at the site a disgrace and said neighbours have had to put up with fly-tipping and other antisocial behaviour.
Councillor Adrian Andrew, deputy leader and portfolio holder for regeneration, said: “Through the dialogue with the current owner of the Leathern Bottle, we understand they are in discussions with the social housing provider, to help them with the redevelopment of this residential site.
"From my own information that has come to me very recently, there will be a planning application put in by the end of February.
“The council has the ability to exercise compulsory purchase order powers, however this can only be done where a compelling case of public interest can be shown. If it comes to it, and we need to, then I’m happy to support the compulsory purchase of this site, and many others.”
Councillor Andrew also noted the work being done to transform The Eagle, another pub at the opposite end of Creswell Crescent. It closed after a shooting in 2007 and lay derelict afterwards.
Applicant SEP Properties was granted planning permission by Walsall Council to demolish The Eagle and build 17 apartments in 2022. Work is well underway at the site.
Councillor Andrew added: “You can see what an incredible job they are doing at The Eagle, which was probably derelict for longer.
"It might take them a while to do it, but when they do do it, they do a good job.”
