Willenhall's Locksmith Quarter Sees First Derelict Factory Demolished in Major Regeneration Milestone
Long-awaited demolition work has finally commenced in Willenhall, with the first of six dilapidated industrial sites being flattened on Moat Street. This marks a significant milestone in a comprehensive regeneration project that will transform a once-thriving industrial area, now officially named the Locksmith Quarter by Walsall Council.
From Industrial Decline to Residential Renewal
The demolition of the Moat Street building represents the initial phase of a wider scheme encompassing Villiers Street, Moat Street, New Hall Street, Stafford Street, and Temple Bar. Over recent years, these derelict factories had deteriorated into hotspots for arson and antisocial behaviour, becoming a persistent blight on the local community. The ambitious plan aims to replace these eyesores with up to 107 new homes, breathing fresh life into the area.
Complex Process and Funding Framework
The regeneration project, described as a new beginning for Willenhall, is being delivered by developer Keepmoat and received outline planning permission in June 2024. It is financially supported by the government's Levelling Up Fund and the West Midlands Combined Authority. The path to demolition has been intricate, involving the use of Compulsory Purchase Powers granted to Walsall Council in November 2024, which led to the closure of businesses including Winfield Industrial Services and SJS Engineering.
Overcoming Delays and Celebrating Progress
Councillor Adrian Andrew, portfolio holder for regeneration and deputy leader of Walsall Council, had previously pledged that demolition would start in early 2025. Despite delays and expenditures reaching £1.7 million by March 31, 2025, with factories still standing, progress has now been realised. Councillor Andrew hailed the first demolition as a major step forward for the project.
It's great to see these derelict eyesores start to come down in Willenhall, he stated. They've been a blight on the community for too long and this is a major step forward in laying the groundwork for a future that Willenhall truly deserves. It's been a complex process to bring these challenging sites forward for development and there have been a lot of hurdles to overcome.
Partnerships and Future Vision
Councillor Andrew emphasised that the collaboration with Keepmoat extends beyond mere construction. Our strong partnership with Keepmoat is about more than just bricks and mortar, he explained. It's about creating homes, spaces, and possibilities that reflect the spirit of Willenhall and support a thriving community for generations to come, whilst honouring Willenhall's rich history.
Shaun Fielding, regional managing director at Keepmoat, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the company's expertise in brownfield regeneration. We're pleased to be strengthening our partnership with Walsall Council by delivering new homes at this high-profile site, he said. The scheme will see the clearance of derelict buildings and the building of much-needed, high-quality housing for new and existing residents. At Keepmoat, we pride ourselves on being experts in brownfield regeneration and unlocking this site and addressing the complex remediation issues, collaboratively with WMBC is testament to this.
This demolition not only removes a longstanding nuisance but also paves the way for a revitalised Locksmith Quarter, promising enhanced community spaces and residential opportunities in Willenhall.
