Walsall Council’s planning committee has this evening approved proposals that will see a major transformation of the arrival experience to Walsall town centre.
Approval has been granted to remodel the Saddlers Centre to create a more open and attractive arrival experience for train passengers whilst also opening up Park Street. Butler’s Passage, which has in the past been the centre of antisocial behaviour, will disappear as some of the buildings are removed to create a large open walkway, connecting the rail and bus hubs.
Increased lighting, better landscaping and improved accessibility all form part of the proposals, with considerations made to improve sustainability through the planting of more trees and greenery. These changes will help to attract future investment as footfall increases and the nighttime economy improves.
The proposed improvements to Gallery Square and the canal basin were also presented to the committee to showcase the bigger picture of improvements that will be coming to Walsall Town Centre.
The proposed view from the entrance to the Saddlers Centre across to the bus station
“ It is great news that planning permission has been granted for the Town Centre Connected Gateway project by Walsall Planning Committee. This is a real boost for the future of our town and confidence boost for more investment in the borough
It’s important for us to make sure people have a good experience when they come to Walsall so they’ll choose to come again. Increased footfall to the town centre will grow the local economy. We’re working on schemes that will improve job creation, and we will build more homes in the town centre too. We want to create an environment where Walsall is a vibrant and safe place to be. “
Councillor Adrian Andrew, Associate Leader
Walsall Council
The proposals are part of a series of planned works in Walsall Town Centre that aim to drive footfall, create a cleaner and safer town centre environment, attract business and boost the local economy.
Other schemes that will be coming to fruition over the next two years include the Creative Industries Enterprise Centre in the Guildhall building and the Adult Learning Centre in the former M&S, as well as the creation of a new canal footbridge and improved public realm around Gallery Square and the canal basin.