A major new housing development has broken ground in the Black Country, aiming to tackle what developers describe as an 'urgent need' for affordable homes. More than 30 new properties are being constructed on a derelict site in Wednesbury, with completion scheduled for late 2026.
Funding and Partnership for Friar Park Development
The £7.4m project on Friar Park Road will deliver 34 two and three-bedroom homes. These will be made available through discounted rents or a rent-to-buy scheme managed by housing association Citizen. The development is a collaboration between builder Keon Homes, Citizen, Homes England, and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker confirmed funding for the scheme earlier this month. The WMCA is contributing £450,000 specifically to cover the costs of decontaminating and preparing the brownfield land, a key aspect of the project's regeneration goals.
Commitment to Brownfield Regeneration and Community
Matt Beckley, Head of Partnerships at Keon Homes, emphasised the company's commitment to a 'Brownfield first' approach. "This is the latest example of how we continue to work with partners... to regenerate a derelict piece of land in the Black Country," he stated.
Beckley highlighted that Wednesbury is in urgent need of more affordable housing and that the Friar Park scheme is designed to place community at its heart. The homes will be high quality and energy efficient, forming a crucial part of a wider masterplan for the former industrial area.
Creating Jobs and Training the Next Generation
The project's impact extends beyond housing. It will champion the next generation of construction professionals, with 10 apprentices gaining hands-on experience on site. Keon Homes runs a 'Homegrown Talent' initiative, providing mentors and professional development for staff under 25.
Mayor Richard Parker said the scheme exemplifies his commitment to building affordable homes. "Schemes like this don't just build new homes," he noted, "they provide jobs and help rebuild communities that people can feel connected to and proud of." This marks the third joint affordable housing project undertaken by Keon Homes and Citizen in the West Midlands.
