Plans to expand the Oldbury Green retail park in Oldbury have been submitted to Sandwell Council. They include the creation of two new units and the extension of an existing unit. The new shops would mean more jobs for the town.

If the plans are approved the expansion of the retail park could be another boost for Oldbury’s retail sector, following the approval of plans for a new shopping complex at Bromford Road on the site of a former foundry.

The owner of the Oldbury Green retail park, Blackrock, is keen to increase the number of shops available to customers and to make Oldbury more attractive to shoppers. The company revealed that it has already received some interest in the proposed new units.

A design statement submitted with the plans said: “In recent years, Blackrock has invested significant capital in upgrading and refurbishing the site and this has facilitated improvements in the appearance of the retail park and has enabled Costa and Smyths Toys to open new units, which has enhanced the quality and choice of retail provision at Oldbury Green Retail Park.

“The application proposals seek to continue the wave of investment at this site, to enhance the offer of Oldbury town centre further.”

The unit with plans to expand is occupied by Homesense, which is in need of more space to display its products. Thomas Cook currently occupies one of the other existing units on the park but looks set to move to one of the new units, freeing up its existing space for a new retailer to move into.

The proposed new units will be built on part of the retail park’s car park, reducing the number of parking spaces available but Blackrock bosses are confident that there would still be ample room for shoppers and staff to park.

A decision on the expansion plans is expected from Sandwell Council in the coming months and work could start on the project within months, providing jobs for the area. The development is being led by Hammerson, the owners of Birmingham’s Bullring and Grand Central shopping centres.

We’ll keep you updated here on our News page with any developments on the scheme and if you need any advice or guidance on submitting plans or developing property please visit our Planning Support page.