Decision deferred over 355,000 sq ft Wolverhampton logistics scheme

A decision over Goold Estates’ plans for a 355,000 sq ft logistics scheme in Wolverhampton, has been deferred.

The developer lodged outline plans at the end of last year to develop the scheme on open public space off of Neachells Lane, which historically was used as a colliery and municipal landfill site.

The 12.5 ha site is currently allocated as a site of local importance for nature conservation, and recreational open space and contains areas of Millennium Urban Forest.

Proposals seek to deliver on the eastern part of the site for warehousing, offices, car parking and a service yard. 5.8 hectares would remain as public open space.

Councillors did not discuss the scheme in the City of Wolverhampton Council’s planning committee meeting last week, as chair Cllr Paul Sweet said the decision was to be deferred for another meeting.

In planning documents ahead of the meeting, the scheme was recommended for approval, subject to a Section 106 agreement.

Goold would have to make a £700k contribution for off-site mitigation for loss of habitat and of Millennium Forest planting. The sum would be split between: £150k for a children’s play area in the Stowlawn area and £550k for improvements and facilities at East Park.

Documents said the proposal is “capable of delivering exceptional strategic benefits” including “financial investment and job creation” which can “outweigh negative impacts on nature conservation and overall levels of open space provision”.

Goold Estates has been contacted for comment, with no response received.