Funeral service HQ to reopen

The Former Midcounties Co-operative headquarters in Walsall town centre is to be re-opened and expanded after standing empty for over a year.

The office was shut last year with 70 workers offered the chance to transfer more than 30 miles to Leamington Spa.

Co-op funeral services is now being relocated to the old site in Hatherton Road, according to plans lodged with the council.

Up to 25 staff will be based at the building, which will include a three storey extension. St Matthews ward Councillor Mohammed Arif said it was a welcome boost for the town

He said: "It will create jobs. It will bring an unused building back into use.

"Co-op are well respected funeral directors."

A new 32 bay storage garage for 16 limousines, nine hearses, four saloons and space for three ambulances will see it become a central base for the organisation.

The existing service operates from nearby Hatherton Street and members of the council's planning committee are recommended to grant permission for the move and change of use on Thursday.

Co-op said it did not want to comment on its plans until a decision is made by the council.