Demolition hope on block

Arson-plagued changing rooms in a Black Country park are finally set to be demolished as plans gather pace for a new £500,000 pavilion.

Residents and councillors have long called for the block in Ashmore Park, Wednesfield, to go after a spate of attacks. Facilities have been out of use since a devastating fire back in January, and campaigners said they were “delighted” a demolition date has finally been set for October.

Wednesfield councillor Phil Bateman said: “They have been the attraction for some to vandalise the site. There has been arson attacks and the changing rooms just look foul and very unappealing.

“I can now inform residents and constituents that I have sought clarification of timescales for the demolition of the changing rooms.

“The council’s property services, which is arranging demolition, has confirmed the gas supply has finally been disconnected and a demolition contractor has been appointed.

“It has been suggested a small amount of asbestos has been found which requires the contractor to give two weeks’ notice prior to demolition. Even allowing for this issue to be resolved, I have been assured that will give a completion date of October 5.

“I like many others will be glad to see the back of what has become an eyesore.”

Councillors are keen to see the rundown site replaced with a new state-of-the-art sports facility and are preparing to lodge a bid for £500,000 to create a new pavilion. It is likely to be bigger and better that the current site with space for clubs to meet as well as changing facilities.

Councillor Bateman said: “It is our aspiration to create a new top quality sports facility on the site.

“The park is full of sporting activities, including Wednesfield Aces cycle speedway and skating, and we need a pavilion which can push those sports forward.”