Developer appointment set to kickstart Black Country Enterprise Zone
A forgotten element to the Black Country Enterprise Zone is set for a rebirth following the appointment of a preferred developer to the scheme.
The Phoenix 10 project in Walsall was awarded Enterprise Zone status by the then coalition government in 2010.
The BCEZ was one of the first designated by the Conservative/Lib Dem administration as part of its efforts to kickstart regional economies in the wake of the credit crunch-inspired recession.
The plan saw the BCEZ was split into two, with one part in Darlaston and the second at what was to become the i54 business park outside Wolverhampton – now home to Jaguar Land Rover’s £1bn Engine Manufacturing Centre as well as a host of other businesses.
There was a thought that the Darlaston site, given its proximity to the M6, might become a feeder site for the engine plant, with scores of component businesses maximising supply chain opportunities relocating, attracted by low rates, relaxed planning regulations and superfast broadband.
However, almost eight years on, the Darlaston site is still empty.
However, there is renewed hope for the scheme following a decision by Walsall Council and Homes England (formerly the Homes and Communities Agency) to appoint Henry Boot Developments (HBD) as their preferred development partner for the Phoenix 10 site.
The 44-acre site, located between junctions 9 and 10 of the M6, was occupied up until 1999 by the James Bridge Copper Works.
Once redeveloped, it is thought the site could accommodate up to 620,000 sq ft (60,000m²) of floorspace, and support around 1,100 jobs.
The £60m scheme is intended to play an important role in helping address the current supply shortage of industrial premises in the region.
HBD’s first task will be to work with its new partners on a masterplan for the site and to secure all necessary consents to deliver the project.
It is estimated work could begin on site in early 2019.
Cllr Sean Coughlan, leader of Walsall Council and housing and land lead for the West Midlands Combined Authority, said: “This is a key strategic industrial site, not only in Walsall but the wider West Midlands, which is crying out to be regenerated.
“Phoenix 10 offers a great opportunity for new businesses to relocate to the region and for existing firms to expand. Supporting businesses to grow and the creation of jobs remains one of our top priorities.”
Vivienne Clements, Development Director for Henry Boot Developments, added: “On the back of opening our new Birmingham office, we’re delighted to be involved in the transformation of Phoenix 10. This is an exceptional opportunity to work with our partners to bring this former industrial site back to good use and create a new gateway to the Black Country.”
David Warburton, Head of Public Sector Land at Homes England in the Midlands, said: “We have worked closely with partners to get to this important milestone and look forward to seeing redevelopment plans for Phoenix 10 progress in the coming months. As a key employment site for the Black Country, Phoenix 10 will play an important role in providing new jobs and revitalising the area.”
Pictured, from left, are: David Warburton, Head of Public Sector Land for Homes England, Midlands; Vivienne Clements, Development Director for Henry Boot Developments; Ninder Johal, Board Member, Black Country LEP, and Cllr Lee Jeavons, deputy leader and regeneration portfolio holder for regeneration, Walsall Council.
