Former Walsall office block and school could become flats in fresh conversion scheme

The scheme for Millennium House on Lower Hall Lane would see 20 apartments built in the former office building, which was formerly also home to a free school who left for purpose-built premises in 2022.

Applicants Fekete Group want to convert the building under permitted development rules that allow for vacant commercial property to be repurposed without full planning consent.

They added that the building's "highly sustainable location" would encourage public transport use alongside the 19 car parking spaces already present on the site, which sits near the former Shannon’s Mill site on the edge of Walsall town centre.

"The proposed change of use would create much needed housing for individuals, couples and young families with the convenience and easy access to the array of public transport, shops and services within Walsall town centre. The proposal does not include any changes to the present character and appearance of Millennium House," they said in a supporting statement submitted with the application.

"The application site is in a highly sustainable location and is within walking distance of the town centre with its array of amenities and easy immediate access to public transport links. However, 19 car parking spaces (including 10 electric charging spaces) and 16 cycle spaces have also been provided at the rear of the building."

The three-storey concrete building was formerly home to Amber Windows and Conservatories and recruitment firm Peopleserve among others.

"The proposal provides new apartments that are close to a local town centre and lies on a main road with several number of bus routes and other public transport. It is therefore a highly sustainable location where a high-density development should be encouraged.

"The applicant has chosen to invest in the area and a positive decision for this application would surely encourage other investors to continue investing up. A prompt decision would also speed up the commencement of work on site in order to deter potential vandalism to the building if it remains empty for too long."

The scheme will be decided by Walsall Council in due course.