Building work ‘kick started’ in town regeneration

THE REGIONAL Minister for the West Midlands Ian Austin MP has launched building work on a new homes development at Walsall’s Waterfront in the latest stage of the town’s regeneration.

The 158 homes will be built by developer Jessup following an £8.7 million grant from the Homes and Communities Agency’s Kickstart programme to unblock projects stalled by the economic downturn.

The homes are due to be completed by March 2011 as the first phase of the Waterfront South scheme and includes 23 affordable rented properties for Accord Housing Association. This £15 million phase also includes office and retail space which is expected to create 200 jobs. The second phase will deliver a further 164 homes.

Mr Austin told guests at the launch: “I am delighted to be at Waterfront South to celebrate the start of work on over 150 new homes for local people. This has only been possible because the government decided to increase spending to get Britain through the downturn, keep the economy moving and save jobs in the construction industry.

“Waterfront South is a tangible example of the success of this Government programme – helping to build the homes families need, supporting the construction industry, and crucially creating jobs and apprenticeships for local people.”

Children from Birchills Primary School presented Mr Austin with a time capsule of their thoughts and drawings on life in Walsall which will be buried at the site.
Other organisations involved in the scheme include Walsall Regeneration Company, Walsall Council, and Advantage West Midlands.

Clive Jessup, chief executive of Jessup Build Develop, said: “We are confident of delivering a scheme Walsall can be proud of at this key regeneration site. We will also upgrade the existing canal towpath and provide a new boulevard and canal bridge which will create a safe, cleaner and pleasant walk from the town centre to the new Manor Hospital.”

Brian Lowe, chairman of Walsall Regeneration Company, said: “This high quality accommodation will show what can be achieved by the private and public sector working together for a better Walsall.”