Work begins on major centre in Wednesbury as part of long-term investment plans for the town

Friar Park Millennium Centre, a community hub in the heart of Wednesbury, celebrated a major milestone with the official spade-in-the-ground ceremony marking the start of its expansion and refurbishment project.

The new development is part of the Levelling Up Partnership Programme, a government-backed initiative aimed at boosting the economy in areas that need it most. 

The fund has already seen Wednesbury benefit from a new town square, tree planting, new paving and new CCTV installed alongside other crime prevention measures.

Kalianne Titley, chair of the Wednesbury Levelling Up Board, said: “The Friar Park Millennium Centre is being expanded to better serve the growing community. 

"The extension will add much-needed space for new programmes, including youth services and skills development projects and space for the community to come together. It will also mean we have a permanent library space.

“I hope people in Wednesbury are already seeing the impact of our investment with the recent official opening of Ethelfleda Square, new trees and CCTV.”

Paul Fish, operations director for Seddon Property Services, said: “Breaking ground on the Millennium Centre marks an exciting step in delivering a modern, energy-efficient facility designed to serve Wednesbury for generations to come. We look forward to working closely with the council and community throughout the build.”

Friar Park has also been selected as an area to receive investment from the Government’s new Pride in Place Programme. 

Over the next 10 years, the area will receive up to £20m in long-term investment designed to empower local communities to work in partnership with service providers to improve high streets, community spaces and public spaces, fostering stronger, close-knit neighbourhoods.

Sandwell has further been identified as an area to receive £1.5 million over the next two years as part of the national Pride In Place Impact Fund.

Sandwell Council cabinet member for regeneration and infrastructure Councillor Peter Hughes said: “This funding is a timely and welcome addition to the work already underway across Wednesbury, to the renewal of public spaces, parks and community hubs that bring people together. 

"It will enable us to build on what we’ve already delivered and accelerate visible improvements that residents, businesses and visitors can see and feel in their daily lives.

“I hope the people of Wednesbury are already seeing the impact of our investment with the recent official opening of Ethelfleda Square, new trees and CCTV."