Plans to deliver new homes in Willenhall, West Midlands, look set to go aft ahead after Walsall Council authorised compulsory purchase powers for derelict land and buildings.
Walsall Council’s cabinet authorised the use of compulsory purchase powers at a meeting this week.
The Willenhall Framework Plan sets out a 10-year vision for housing growth and place making in the area.
The compulsory purchase powers will enable Walsall Council to remove derelict, disused buildings within phase one of the plan area so that more than 100 new homes and a new area of open space can be delivered.
The phase one site focuses on an area in and around Moat Street and Villiers Street.
Councillor Adrian Andrew, deputy leader and portfolio holder for regeneration, said: “I’m pleased that the use of compulsory purchase powers has been authorised so we can move forward with the plans for Willenhall.
“The Willenhall Framework Plan maps out an exciting transformation of the area, developing more much-needed housing and improving public open spaces.
“Officers have worked hard to acquire all the necessary privately owned derelict land and buildings and will continue to do so, but council feels we now need to use our powers to acquire. These derelict sites are unsightly and attract antisocial behaviour so acquiring them for development is fundamental for Willenhall’s transformation.”
Construction began earlier this month on the Greenway, a 3km route for pedestrians and cyclists that runs east to west from Willenhall Memorial Park through Moat Street/Villiers Street. It will improve connectivity to the wider Walsall area.
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