Transformation of fire-ravaged building takes shape

Council bosses have called the development at High Street, Walsall, set to contain nine flats and a restaurant when complete, 'another piece in the jigsaw for the regeneration of Walsall'.

The development will be built on the site where a part of fabric shop the Hole in the Wall was destroyed in a blaze back in 2004.

The shop, which continues to trade, was partially destroyed following the blaze.

The fire brought the town centre to a standstill as 100 firefighters attempted to put it out.

Despite losing its entire stock in the blaze the Hole in the Wall was able to reopen next door three months later.

Paul Broadgate, who owns the Hole in the Wall, has invested £2 million in order to turn the fire-ravaged site into flats and a restaurant. The steel structure is now complete.

He said: "I am delighted to be able to contribute to the regeneration of Walsall town centre. This is an exciting time for the area and with regards to this particular development, it is exciting, work is progressing well and everything looks great. A commercial unit, which is ideal for a restaurant but could be used for anything, will be located underneath the flats.

"We expect everything to be done by the autumn." The developer and businessman has said that while there still hasn't been any agreement regarding which restaurant will take residence at the site, he believes it would be an ideal location for any potential suitors.

The scheme promises to dramatically change the look to what is regarded as the gateway of the town.

It will also complement the redevelopment of St Matthew's Quarter, where a £12m shopping centre is is planned.

Councillor Adrian Andrew, Walsall Council's regeneration chief and deputy leader, said: "This is another piece in the jigsaw for the regeneration of Walsall.

"What is particularly pleasing is that this work is being carried out by a local man, who is investing money back into the town.

"The council has shared a long business relationship with Paul and I am personally delighted that I have been able to help this project along in some way."

Plans for the combination of commercial space and nine apartments were given the nod by Walsall Council last year.

A council report discussing the plans prior to their approval said the new development would 'repair' a key part of the town. It read: " The appearance and character of High Street is currently marred by the hole at its top corner."

The ongoing regeneration of Walsall town centre has also included the opening of a new Primark in August and a cinema and leisure development is under way at Walsall Waterfront.