Bagot Arms: Shops and flats plan to transform notorious pub site

The Bagot Arms closed in 2008 after Luke Harris was gunned down

Plans to transform a once notorious pub that was the scene of a fatal shooting with shops and flats have been welcomed by residents.

The Bagot Arms in Whitmore Reans has been shut ever since father of two Luke Harris was shot dead in March 2008.

Plans submitted to City of Wolverhampton Council include eight shops on the ground floor, three flats above, with car parking at the back.

The dilapidated site has been an eyesore for more than 15 years.

Before it closed it was renowned for antisocial behaviour, criminal activity and disturbances before Mr Harris was killed following an argument earlier in the Goalpost pub.

'Empty too long'

Developers Poplars MP are seeking planning permission to transform the site, between the Avion Shopping Centre, St Andrew's Church and Whitmore Reans Health Centre.

Aadil Hussain, director of Express Properties in Newhampton Road West, said the plans were good news for the area.

"Flats and shops would be good for local businesses and will help to improve the area," he said.

"It has been empty for too long. The area needs more businesses to help regenerate it."

A statement from ACP Architects, acting on behalf of the company, said residents had largely been in support of the proposals, with just one letter against the plan.

The shops would not be open before 07:00 or later than 23:00, they added.

Walid Mohammed, a worker at K.Rams & Sons, told the BBC he was concerned the area had too many shops.

"I think just flats is fine. Maybe they could turn it into a community centre or something to support the people living in the area," he suggested.

The plans will be discussed by planners in due course.