Huge amounts of investment have been, and continue to be, attracted to the borough to improve local areas, restore buildings back into economic use, build new homes and create opportunities for work and leisure.
“ We’re starting 2026 in a really strong position with lots to look forward to across the borough. We’re moving forward with transformative schemes that are already underway, and we’re implementing new frameworks and strategies to build on the incredible progress we’ve already made.
2026 will bring new housing, new railway stations, more jobs and opportunities, and the start of the major transformation of Walsall town centre, and much more. It’s a really exciting time for Walsall “
Lots of improvements have already been delivered, but what can we expect to see in 2026 and beyond?
New employment floorspace will be delivered on various brownfield sites across the borough in 2026 and beyond, including units on the landmark scheme SPARK, by M6 Junction 10. These sites will create vital opportunities for employment and business, turning disused brownfield land into high-spec hubs for logistics and warehousing.
The Walsall Town Centre ‘Connected Gateway’ programme will continue in earnest in early 2026, starting with demolition in Park Street to create an open sightline between the rail and bus stations. Improvements will be made to Gallery Square and the canal basin and the Saddlers Centre renovation will continue, creating more opportunities for town centre retail, leisure and dining.
As part of this, the Adult Learning Centre in the former Marks & Spencer is on track to open in September.
he Guildhall is due to reopen in summer 2026 following extensive and careful restoration. The stunning Grade II* listed building will be a hub of creativity offering space for makers and artists to build and grow their creative businesses and access quality equipment.
New homes in Willenhall will start being built by Keepmoat Homes Ltd following demolition of a swathe of derelict buildings. Over 2 hectares of land was acquired by Walsall Council in 2025 following a complex Compulsory Purchase Order and many of the sites held existing structures which were in a poor condition and subject to antisocial behaviour. The process of preparing these sites for demolition has been complex and challenging but 2026 will see significant change in the area as structures are demolished to make way for quality new homes.
The new railway stations in Willenhall and Darlaston will open in 2026 and will improve connectivity for local residents, bringing rail connections back to those communities for the first time in 60 years.
Heading into 2026, Walsall Council is preparing its Walsall Borough Local Plan following consultation with residents while moving forward with implementation of its new Town Centre Framework and Housing Strategies. These will all help to shape how and where future developments happen across the borough to build a Walsall that works for local communities.
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