Demolition programme starts to pave way for health facility and homes
City of Wolverhampton Council has begun mobilisation works ahead of full demolition starting in the coming weeks to pave the way for a new health and wellbeing facility and neighbouring homes in Oxley.
Outline planning approval was granted in March for the facility and homes, which will sit on the site of the former Oxley Day Training Centre.
The derelict council-owned centre in Probert Road will firstly be stripped out by contractors before machines move in to raze it to the ground and clear the site ready for construction, subject to final planning approval.
A feasibility study for the scheme, supported by West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) funding, was conducted and feedback from stakeholders and the public at community events last year has shaped the design, which comprises two complementary buildings.
The residential accommodation proposal will include an opportunity for key worker housing and affordable living. It allows for a mix of 23 housing units across the site with a view to partnering with a housing partner that can support the new Government Self & Custom Build initiative.
City of Wolverhampton Council’s Steve Evans said: “I would like to thank everyone who has provided us with very valuable feedback that has shaped this project significantly.
“It is important that this development meets the needs of local residents and the consultation events gave us a clear direction to inform the outline planning application and gain approval.
“We can now look forward to the former Day Training Centre being demolished in the coming weeks, paving the way for the construction of the new health & wellbeing facility and homes to start, subject to final planning approval.”
Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA chair, said: “With the help of WMCA investment, regeneration of yet another derelict brownfield site is underway.
“Our brownfield first policy – using money secured from Government – continues to breathe new life into disused urban sites. Right across our region, we’re providing new homes and creating jobs for local people – all whilst protecting our precious greenbelt.
“I cannot wait to see this scheme come to fruition and I’m sure the local community are looking forward to the new homes and modern health centre coming soon to this site.”
