'Once in a generation' new development to go ahead

The first phase of the Smithgate development includes 331 new flats

Plans to build more than 1,000 new homes as part of a large city centre regeneration scheme has been backed.

The Smithgate development in Wolverhampton is to include up to 1,070 new homes, shops, bars and restaurants as well as a revamped public square across a 12-acre site.

The first phase, which has approved planning permission, includes 331 new flats and new retail units on the site of the former indoor market on Peel Street.

City of Wolverhampton Council's cabinet agreed to push ahead with the move at a meeting on Wednesday.

The council is using its powers to convert property rights, to allow the development to go ahead.

The cabinet report said appropriating the land for the first phase would "effectively remove the threat of injunctions" to ensure the first phrase of the huge redevelopment plan went ahead "without legal obstruction and maintaining momentum in funding discussions."

Chris Burden, cabinet member for city development, jobs and skills said the "once in a generation" scheme would be the "biggest intentional expansion of our city centre residential ever."

"I think that is something that has come out loud and clear from the leadership of this council and the residents," he said.

"They want more housing but they do want brownfield high-quality housing and I think is what Smithgate is going to deliver."