The £65m proposal directed by the leading UK build-to-rent provider is for an ambitious residential scheme, to be located close to Wolverhampton’s new £150m transport Interchange, on land off Lower Horseley Fields in the city centre.
Following approval at planning committee earlier in the year, full planning permission and listed building consent has now been granted.
The development will deliver a new canalside community as part of a wider regeneration project in the area, working alongside the City of Wolverhampton Council, Canal and River Trust and West Midlands Combined Authority. It will provide a mix of townhouses, new build apartments and commercial space across five acres of brownfield land.
Sensitive restoration of heritage canalside properties including several listed buildings, and major environmental improvements will be implemented in the scheme, which is designed by award winning architecture practice jmarchitects, with WSP as planning and heritage consultants.
Included in the regeneration and Placefirst’s commitment to placemaking, a new promenade, public open spaces, landscaping and pedestrian access to the canal towpath will also be created, taking full advantage of the heritage waterways.
The development is part of Placefirst’s expansion to the West Midlands joining its portfolio of national regeneration projects, and once complete, will transform this former industrial area into a vibrant canalside community with a mix of housing options. Following site preparation, work is expected to start on site in Summer 2022.
Darran Lawless, development director for Placefirst commented: “We are delighted to receive full planning approval for this transformative development in Wolverhampton’s Canalside Quarter. We are proud of all the hard work undertaken by the whole team and our partners, that will enable a brownfield site situated in such a historic location to reach its true potential, creating an exciting, sustainable new neighbourhood.
“The focus on placemaking and development of public realm at this ¬waterside development, is another example of Placefirst’s commitment to delivering schemes that will rejuvenate communities, and adds to our track record of creating neighbourhoods with a real sense of place.”
Councillor Stephen Simkins, City of Wolverhampton Council Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for City Economy, said: “The full planning permission and listed building consent now gives Placefirst the green light to get this transformational scheme in Wolverhampton off the ground next year.
“They will deliver a nationally significant development that not only brings back into use a large parcel of brownfield land but also enables the city to take advantage of our fantastic waterways, and the heritage that comes with it, to provide a sustainable community where people want to live and work, now and in the future.
“The Placefirst scheme will also generate around 150 jobs and boost our economic recovery from Covid-19.
“Urban living forms a critical part of how we are re-imagining our city centre and will help us meet the increasing demand for housing.
“Canalside is a large and exciting opportunity and the Council is working hard with its partners to provide the determined and skilful leadership needed to realise opportunities like this.”
