Art deco ex-office building in Wolverhampton to be turned into flats
An art deco former office building in Wolverhampton is to be turned into 21 luxury apartments.
The two-storey Beldray building in Mount Pleasant, Bilston, was previously used as Children’s Services offices by Wolverhampton Council.
Prior to this, the property was home to domestic metalware manufacturers the Beldray Company.
Applicant Mr Balbir Sidhu, from Great Barr, has been granted prior approval for the building’s change of use to residential units.
Councillor Linda Leach said: “The Beldray building is a vacant property that has been empty for many years. It is on a main route into Bilston town centre and although it’s a nice building, it looks a bit tired at the moment.
“The building is a former office block and the Government give planners the right to approve a change of use from offices into apartments without the need to consult residents.
“I’m really pleased that this beautiful building has now been granted prior approval to be converted into 21 luxury apartments. These will have 32 car parking spaces which is a must for such a busy area.
“The exterior of the building is being kept the same which is also great. I’m looking forward to seeing this property brought back to life, which will also help bring the area back to how it once was,” she added.
In a report submitted with the application, Kay Singh of West Bromwich-based KS Architectural Services, said: “The property is in the heart of Bilston, which is approximately 2.5 miles away from Wolverhampton city centre.
“Even though it is just outside the local conservation area, the building itself is locally listed. The site previously belonged to the Beldray Company, who later sold the site to the council and moved into a large modern factory directly behind these premises.
“Wolverhampton Council used it for Children’s Services offices for a number of years before selling it recently. The site is located on Mount Pleasant, opposite Ashley Street and between Albion Street and Etruria Way.
“With the recent development of the surrounding areas and home prices soaring, this location will be ideal for first time buyers and professionals who do not want to live in an expensive city environment but to have luxury on a budget,” added the report.
The majority of original features inside the building, including the aluminium stair rail and large stained glass windows, will be restored and retained as part of the development.
