Eyesore building will be flats

A landmark building in Kidderminster which has been an eyesore for many years will finally be brought back into use after a scheme to breathe new life into it was approved.

Plans to develop the old Post Office/telephone exchange, in Blackwell Street, into flats, offices and a shop, were first mooted in 2004 but the project has been hit by setbacks, including questions over whether it would be commercially viable.

The scheme is for 54 flats but includes only 42 parking spaces, which prompted concern from councillors at last night's planning meeting. But it was decided the scheme was badly-needed to rejuvenate a run-down area.

Councillor Graham Ballinger said: "A lot of traders have said many of the reasons they have problems in the Blackwell Street area is because of this building which is an eyesore. This is as close as we've got to doing something about it."

A previous scheme was rejected in March as it was believed there were not enough lifts to access the flats and the amenity space was too small. The new plans show the front of the building would be retained, but the rest demolished.

Blackwell Street has attracted criticism in recent years for its run-down appearance and the plan aims to boost the area by giving it a revamp, making it more vibrant.

It comes on the back of news of a £38 million redevelopment scheme for the area around Worcester Street, so it can compete with flagship shopping complex which is situated Weavers Wharf.