Black Country factory site destined for new housing after land sale

A disused former factory site in the Black Country is to be redeveloped for housing after being acquired by the Homes and Communities Agency.

The 6.9-acre site in Park Lane, Cradley Heath used to be the site of a plastic mouldings factory but the business was devastated by a serious fire in 2009 and the buildings were demolished.

Property consultants Bruton Knowles, acting on behalf of East India Trading Company 1998 Ltd, completed the sale to the HCA for an undisclosed sum.

The HCA is proposing to build up to 70 new homes on the site.

Ian Mercer, partner and head of development at Bruton Knowles in Birmingham, said: “This brownfield site is typical of the Black Country but its location and secluded position, with views towards Clee Hill and Clee Stanton, meant it was prime for residential development.

“We welcome the HCA’s commitment to spearheading urban regeneration and providing much needed new homes in Cradley Heath and the Black Country. This is a classic example of how brownfield sites can be redeveloped to help meet local housing needs.

“With the Government seemingly committed to tackling the housing supply shortage by enabling more homes to be built on brownfield sites, the HCA’s acquisition of is a strong signal of intent.”