Express & Star

Retail and leisure complex with 200 homes planned for Kingswinford

A former brickworks site is set to welcome a major retail and leisure development alongside 200 homes - despite concerns from retail giants intu Merry Hill and Morrison's.

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The area in Stallings Lane, Kingswinford, that was formerly occupied by Ibstock would include an Aldi and Iceland alongside a gym and pub. The 18-acre scheme will also include space for 365 cars.

However, following a public consultation, concerns were raised by retail bosses about the impact on existing shops in the area.

In a statement from intu Properties PLC, it reads: "The application does not properly assess the impact of the proposals on the vitality and viability of the Brierley Hill Strategic Centre or local centres within the vicinity of the site."

A contribution of £30,000 to pay for consultants to undertake an assessment of potential improvements to highway junctions in the area has also been requested by council bosses.

Plans have been recommended for approval, subject to conditions, at a Dudley Council meeting on Tuesday.

Plans were submitted by brick making giant Ibstock alongside fellow applicants Helical Retail and Hawkins.

A council document published ahead of the meeting states: "This application would result in the redevelopment of a brownfield site which is allocated for housing and mixed use, positively contributing towards the regeneration of the borough, the delivery of much needed housing, council tax, new homes bonus and jobs."

A document submitted to the council on behalf of the applicant adds that it will unlock a 'significant opportunity'.

It reads: "Tansey Green represents a significant opportunity to deliver a mixed-used development which responds to local retail, leisure and housing needs.

"The scheme unlocks major economic, social and environmental benefits on a site suitable for development."

The proposed development, if approved, would be constructed on the opposite side of Stallings Lane to Pensnett Trading Estate which comprises of 185 acres and is home to almost 200 companies.

It is also close to the Himley View residential development, which comprises of around 335 dwellings.