Build to Rent developer – Placefirst – has submitted a planning application for 370 new homes in the heart of Wolverhampton’s historic Canalside Quarter.
The development will deliver the first phase of a canalside community – which is part of a major regeneration project. The £65m proposal will include a mix of townhouses and apartments across five acres of brownfield land – and is located close to Wolverhampton’s new £150m transport interchange on land off Lower Horseley Fields in the city centre.
“With having delivered major regeneration schemes in the north of England, we’re really excited that our first proposed development in the Midlands will be transformational for such a prominent heritage location.
“The vision for this Canalside development is more than new build homes, as our focus is on opening up the canal for public use and creating a thriving community in the heart of the city centre.”
David Mawson, Chief Executive, Placefirst
The scheme has been designed by jmarchitects and includes the sensitive restoration of heritage canalside properties. The proposed development will regenerate this historic canalside location, creating a new promenade, public open spaces, landscaping and the restoration of listed buildings. There will also be a new pedestrian access to the canal towpath.
“We’ve worked closely with the local council and engaged the local community to propose what we feel will be a stunning waterside residential scheme that will unearth the true potential of this historic brownfield site, close to Wolverhampton’s newly opened transport interchange.”
David Mawson, Chief Executive, Placefirst
Placefirst has worked collaboratively with the City of Wolverhampton Council and undertook an online public consultation ahead of submission. Discussions have also taken place with the Canal and River Trust and West Midlands Combined Authority. WSP is acting as planning consultant.
“These plans are aimed at delivering a major residential waterside scheme in our city centre. Regeneration of Canalside is a large and exciting opportunity that will require determined and skilful leadership by the council and partners to realise the opportunity.
“This planning application for a nationally significant development at this wonderful heritage location shows investment in Wolverhampton remains strong and that is critical to our recovery from Covid-19 and relighting our city.”
Councillor Stephen Simkins, Cabinet Member for City Economy
