1960s maisonettes to be demolished for “modern” homes as part of council plans

The City of Wolverhampton Council’s cabinet has approved major redevelopment plans for council housing in New Park Village.

As part of the proposals 184 “out-dated”, deck-access maisonettes at Ellerton Walk will be demolished and replaced with “new modern homes” for rent and sale.

During a public consultation in January 75 per cent of the 161 returned surveys were in favour of demolition and redevelopment, rather than refurbishment or keeping them as they are.

On Tuesday night the Cabinet Resources Panel approved the project, which after a further round of consultation with residents, will go to planning.

The multi-million-pound programme will be funded from the council’s Housing Revenue Account capital budget.

Council Leader, Councillor Ian Brookfield, said: “The 100-year anniversary of council housing in Britain this year gives us cause to celebrate our work in the City of Wolverhampton.

“We are continuing to invest heavily in new and replacement council housing and this scheme will make a major difference to residents in New Park Village.

“It forms part of our housing plans to deliver better homes for all across the city.”

The 1960s maisonettes sit within eight linked deck-access blocks, each with integral garages at ground-floor level.

Subject to planning approval, delivery of the demolition and redevelopment scheme will start from winter 2020 and will be phased over several years to minimise the number of moves residents have to make.

Environmental improvements will also be designed alongside the new homes, addressing car parking and road layout with the redevelopment of the estate.