Walsall and Keepmoat push on with Locksmiths Quarter
Around 100 homes will be built as the first phase of a 10-year masterplan to regenerate Willenhall.
Walsall Council is working with regeneration specialist Keepmoat on the project, with the initial focus of the Willenhall Framework Plan being on Moat Street and Villiers Street.
Keepmoat was appointed in November 2023, and CPOs completed earlier this year. Now, plans for the demolition and remediation phase have been actioned.
Cllr Adrian Andrew, deputy leader of Walsall Council, said: “Our partnership with Keepmoat marks another major milestone in delivering the homes, spaces, and opportunities that Willenhall deserves.
“At Locksmiths Quarter, together we’re building a future that honours Willenhall’s proud heritage while embracing innovation and sustainability, and an even prouder future.”
A 10-year plan is in place for Willenhall’s transformation. Credit: Walsall Council
Ben Leather, regional managing director at Keepmoat West Midlands, said: “We’re thrilled to launch our partnership with Walsall Council by working collaboratively to deliver circa 100 new energy-efficient homes.
“The Locksmiths Quarter development off Moat Street in Willenhall will offer high-quality housing for local people. As experts in transforming brownfield land at Keepmoat, our team is excited to be working with the local authority to regenerate this site. We are eager to begin the remediation works, creating a vibrant new community and revitalising the area.”
The first phase of development will be centred on Moat Street and Villiers Street, with the partners declaring that homes will be energy-efficient, attractive, and accessible across a full affordability range.
Willenhall’s regeneration programme is supported by the government’s Levelling Up Fund and the West Midlands Combined Authority, with public cash enabling land acquisition through CPOs and supporting brownfield development.
Outline planning permission for phase one was granted in July 2024, following community consultation.
