New proposals have been unveiled to transform a derelict former mission hall in the Black Country into supported living accommodation for vulnerable adults. Edgeview Homes has submitted a planning application to Sandwell Council seeking permission to redevelop John Owen House, located on the corner of Grange Road and Waterfall Lane in Old Hill, Cradley Heath.
From Neglected Eyesore to Vital Community Asset
The application documents describe the former hall as having been "neglected" and existing in a "poorly maintained state," presenting what many local residents consider an eyesore in the community. The proposed conversion would see the building repurposed into six supported living units designed to provide 24-hour residential care for adults aged between 18 and 65 years old.
Specialist Support for Complex Needs
The development would specifically cater to individuals with learning disabilities, mental health challenges, autistic spectrum disorders, and other complex care requirements. This represents a significant investment in specialist housing provision within the Sandwell area, addressing a growing need for appropriate supported living environments.
Continuing Regeneration Along Grange Road
This latest proposal follows recent planning decisions along the same stretch of Grange Road. Last year, Sandwell Council approved plans to convert the former Old Furnace pub, situated opposite the proposed development site, into residential flats. That establishment had been closed since 2010 and had been the subject of multiple unsuccessful redevelopment applications over the years.
Previous Proposals and Rejections
The planning history for the area reveals several previous attempts at regeneration. An application to convert the former pub into retail premises was rejected in 2024, with council planners expressing preference for reinstating the car park to prevent obstruction along the road's bend. Earlier proposals for the site included:
- Approval in 2021 for demolition and construction of five new homes that never progressed
- Rejection of conversion to offices and storage space in 2020
- Refusal of plans to transform the fenced-off car park into a hand car wash and valeting service last year
Council officials described the car wash proposal as "inappropriate," "poorly designed," and "incompatible with its surroundings" when turning down the application.
Addressing Local Housing and Care Needs
The proposed conversion of John Owen House represents a more substantial community-focused development compared to previous commercial proposals for neighbouring sites. By creating specialist supported living accommodation, the scheme aims to address both the physical regeneration of a neglected building and the social need for appropriate care facilities within the local area.
Sandwell Council planning officers will now assess the application against local planning policies, considering factors including design quality, impact on the surrounding area, and contribution to community infrastructure. The decision will form part of the ongoing transformation of this section of Cradley Heath.
