Designs revealed for £11m overhaul of Walsall town centre
Construction on Walsall Council’s £11.4m Connected Gateway project is set to start this Spring, to boost footfall in the town.
Funded through the Future High Streets fund and investment from Walsall Council, the project is part of the borough’s £1.5bn programme of investment that will create more than 4,000 jobs and build over 1,000 new homes.
The Saddlers Centre will receive extensive updates to modernise the space, repurposing the former M&S unit into a town centre adult learning facility in partnership with Walsall College.
The walkway through the mall from the railway station will be straightened up and widened, creating a more attractive arrival experience when stepping off the train in Walsall, and the clear sightline from the railway station to the bus station will help to better link public transport.
Park Street and Gallery Square will both benefit from more greenery, to improve the public realm and make the town centre more attractive.
Cllr Adrian Andrew, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Regeneration Walsall Council said: “I’m looking forward to seeing the changes in Walsall town centre start to take shape. These improvements present opportunities for businesses and will boost the local economy, bringing adult learners into the town centre and creating spaces for other non-retail uses that will attract greater footfall, making Walsall a destination of choice.”
James Norris, Assistant Principal for Commercial Development Walsall College said: “The former M&S is ideally situated in the heart of the town centre, with ample parking as well as close public transport links. We look forward to bringing learning and training opportunities into the town centre and working with residents to boost skills.”
Melvin Glasby, Centre Manager Saddlers Centre said: “We’ve been working closely with the Council on this for some time, and it’s great to see the plans begin to really take shape. We welcome and encourage opportunities for non-retail uses and the proposed plans will really inject life back into the town centre”.
