Bloxwich Pub project poised for consent despite gripes

A new pub, shop and residential complex which will create new jobs in Bloxwich is poised to get the go-ahead, despite complaints over noise and nuisance.

The trouble-hit former Leathern Bottle pub will be pulled down to make way for a new three-storey L-shaped building in Cresswell Crescent.

Walsall Council planners are being recommended to approve the ambitious scheme and replace the empty building with a new pub, retail space and nine flats. The former pub was hit with problems in 2009.

There were two police raids and Class A drugs were recovered three years ago.

Council chiefs rejected previous plans for shops and maisonettes on the site after saying developers had failed to justify the loss of a pub.

Six letters of objection have been lodged with the council over the new proposals including concerns over noise, attracting groups of youths, late opening hours and increased traffic.

Two letters of support have also been submitted stating there is no pub in the area at present and it will vis-ually improve the area.

Councillors are being recommended to approve the app-lication when they meet at the Council House on Thursday.

In his report to the committee head of planning David Elsworthy says: "The proposal provides a replacement public house which would enhance the vitality and viability of the local centre.

The proposed development would assist in regenerating a vacant and derelict site and positively enhance the area whilst assisting the local economy.

"The new public house would not create any additional noise and disturbance over and above the existing public house. The proposed opening hours would be acceptable, as the proposal would enhance the economy of the local centre."

It is planned the pub would open between 11am and 11pm and the shop from 6am to 9pm.

The report adds residential development would play an important role in ensuring the vitality of the local centre.

It has not been revealed how many jobs would be created at this stage.