Sandwell Council, in partnership with the West Midlands Combined Authority, has begun work to demolish the Bull Street multi-storey car park, a long-standing eyesore in West Bromwich town centre.

The car park, built in the 1970s, has sat vacant since 2019 when it was closed due to its poor state of repair and ongoing deterioration. Its demolition will free up the land for much needed improvements to the local area, including new homes, community spaces and green areas.

Like many other towns in the region, West Bromwich has been adversely affected by the increase in online shopping, and more recently the coronavirus pandemic. The WMCA’s town centre task force has a remit to help high streets diversify and offer more homes, public services, offices, start-up spaces, better transport links and improved safety. The construction work will also provide valuable employment for local people.

Deputy leader of Sandwell Council, Councillor Maria Crompton, said: “Creating better economic prospects is vital and this regeneration and development will be home to a thriving new residential and business community in the heart of town, with more greenery and safe open spaces.”

The site is located within the WMCA’s Town Centre Programme are and Sandwell Council have proactively sought finance for the development work. West Bromwich has been put forward by Sandwell Council to the WMCA for priority regeneration funding, due to its importance to the regional economy. Think Sandwell will be following the developments with interest – follow us on @ThinkSandwell for the latest updates.