Homes plan for eyesore pub site in Bloxwich revealed
An eyesore pub that has been targeted by vandals and travellers could be turned into flats, under new plans.
Developer SEP Properties has applied to build 17 flats on the site of The Eagle, on Cresswell Crescent, in Bloxwich.
In November, travellers set up camp outside the derelict pub, which was shut in 2007 after a man was shot.
David Winnick, MP for Walsall North, has been trying to get the trouble-hit site – along with the former Leathern Bottle pub site on the same estate – cleared for several years.
The Leathern Bottle, which has also been a target for vandals, was the subject of a planning application for shops, homes and another pub back in 2012, however, nothing came of the plans.
The land is also owned by SEP Properties. Mr Winnick said the firm could face prosecution if both sites are not cleared up.
He said: "I have received assurances from the owners in recent weeks that clean-up work would be carried out but I still maintain that it is downright disgraceful the way they have approached looking after this land.
"The prosecution case is very much still being prepared and I intend to take the matter up in the House of Commons if the clean-up doesn't go ahead as planned.
"Obviously the planning application itself is something for the council to consider but I would hope that they look at it as soon as possible because this has gone on for far too long."
News that the Eagle site could be redeveloped has been welcomed.
Councillor Bradley Allen, who represents Bloxwich West, said: "This is great news. The site has had its share of trouble over the years, residents have relayed to us on numerous occasions how unhappy they are with the state it is in. Putting flats in its place would drastically improve the image of the area."
Walsall Council spokesperson Sophia French said the council has taken action over The Eagle site.
She said: "The council is in communication with David Winnick MP and the owner of the site and is keen to ensure that the requirements of the Section 2015 Notice served last year and which is aimed at tidying up the site are complied with in full.
"The council will look to use all relevant powers to ensure compliance with the notice where possible. However, if this is not achieved prosecution proceedings will follow."
No-one from SEP Properties was available for comment.
