New jewels for Crown Centre

Ambitious £50 million plans to redevelop the ailing Crown Centre and transform the face of Stourbridge have finally been approved.

Developers Modus say work could start as early as next year on transforming the precinct with a giant supermarket, four new shops, a market hall and 75 flats.

Work will also include redevelopment of the neighbouring Bell Street multi-storey car park and the creation of a public square at the High Street entrance.

The plans have been on the table for some time and traders hope the redevelopment will be the first stage in attracting shoppers back to the historic market town.

Chairman of Dudley's planning committee, Councillor Timothy Wright, said after approving the plans: "The history of tomorrow starts today for Stourbridge. This really is a poignant moment."

Councillor Malcolm Knowles, cabinet member for regeneration, said the development was probably the most important Stourbridge had seen for many years.

Despite winning approval the modern design of the new look Crown Centre attracted some backlash from councillors who have called for a re-think over the curved glass frontage and canopy.

Councillor Geoffrey Southall said: "I would have liked to see something perhaps with a little bit more character, more in-keeping with a historic market town. The design is very contemporary."

Councillor Colin Wilson said: "I have reservations about the contemporary design. It is not really an inspiring sight for me, it is a bit of a shock to the system."

However others welcomed the design.

Planning committee vice-chairman Colin Banks said: "I think the curved glass frontage is better than bare brick, it certainly looks a lot better than it does at the moment."