Leader of Walsall Council, Councillor Mike Bird, presented his report at a meeting of full council last night (Wednesday 30 July), highlighting the impressive plans to transform Walsall Town Centre.
CGI of walsall saddlers centre
The Town Centre Connected Gateway project is already underway, with the downstairs area of the Saddlers Centre set to complete construction in Autumn this year.
Major works to transform the town centre by creating a clearer link between the town’s rail and bus stations and improve the surrounding area to make the town centre more appealing will then commence in early 2026, with contractor Kier on board to deliver the work.
“ The transformation of Walsall Town Centre is an important part of our £1.5billion programme of borough-wide regeneration.
The new Youth Hub which opened last month in the Saddlers Centre is already proving to be a great success, with young people coming together every day to use the facilities and socialise. The transformative work that will take place across the Town Centre over the coming years will build on that success to deliver a thriving environment where people are proud to live, work and spend time “
Councillor Mike Bird, Leader
Walsall Council
A brand-new CGI fly-through video of the Saddlers Centre has now been released to show people what they can expect to see when they come to Walsall town centre once work is complete.
“ We’re working with our partners and the community to build a better future for Walsall town centre where people feel safe, happy and healthy and where there are ample opportunities to live, work and spend time.
The upcoming Walsall MakerFest on Saturday 13 September, following the success of the inaugural event last year, is one of many events that showcase the scale of opportunity and potential in Walsall town centre to bring communities together and create a thriving environment “
Councillor Adrian Andrew, Deputy Leader
Walsall Council
The majority of the work in the town centre is due to commence at the beginning of 2026, when Park Street will be opened up to create a clear sightline from the railway station entrance through to the bus station. More greenery will be planted, walkways will be resurfaced and the Saddlers Centre will be refurbished into a light, modern and welcoming space.
Walsall College is planning to take on the former Marks and Spencer’s unit to bring a brand-new adult learning facility into the Town Centre, and the council is also working in partnership with the Canal & River Trust to improve the canal basin to encourage boaters and make better use of the waterfront area.