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Wavensmere Homes has officially submitted a full planning application to the City of Wolverhampton Council for a £150 million regeneration project at Canalside South. The 17.5-acre site, located in the city centre, has been earmarked for a significant transformation, aiming to revitalize the long-abandoned industrial area with over 530 energy-efficient homes, green spaces, and commercial facilities.
Situated along the Wyrley & Essington Canal and the Wolverhampton Branch of the Birmingham Main Line Canal, the project is designed by Glancy Nicholls Architects. It will feature low-rise buildings that are intended to blend seamlessly with the surrounding conservation area, enhancing the canalside environment. The development is expected to create a new walkway to the city centre, cutting the previous walk time by 20 minutes, and stimulating investment in the area’s commercial corridor.
The comprehensive project combines the Canal & River Trust’s former Crane Foundry site, the Council’s old British Steel site, and land off Qualcast Road. Wavensmere Homes plans to construct 378 two- and three-bedroom townhouses, 145 one- and two-bedroom apartments, and a 10-unit co-living building with six bedrooms per unit. Additionally, disused railway arches will be redeveloped into 14,400 square feet of commercial space.
James Dickens, managing director of Wavensmere Homes, expressed excitement about the project, stating, “These £150 million plans introduce new green spaces, amenities, and various housing options to the city. The development will be a catalyst for a new wave of ambitious city living, which is crucial for keeping local spending within Wolverhampton.”
The construction program is expected to create more than 100 jobs, with 70% of the supply chain sourced locally. Wavensmere Homes has a strong track record of regenerating vacant land in the Black Country, and this development is anticipated to become a landmark project for the region.
Councillor Chris Burden, cabinet member for city development, skills, and jobs at City of Wolverhampton Council, welcomed the planning application, highlighting its potential to bring new life to redundant sites along the canal network and contribute to the city’s brownfield first strategy. He noted that the redevelopment would provide residents with excellent connectivity, amenities, and well-being opportunities in this historic location.
