Public have their say on Bilston’s orchard plans

Released: 29 July 2008

Residents, local businesses and interested parties will have the opportunity this week to view and comment on a range of proposals for development of The Orchard, an area of historic importance in Bilston now earmarked for regeneration.
 
Staff from Wolverhampton City Council will be on hand at 58 Church Street, Bilston (next to the Bilston Metro Line and opposite Lloyds Pharmacy) on Thursday, 31 July between 10am and 3pm. 
 
The council’s plans seek to give The Orchard and its buildings a new lease of life. The proposals include providing a mix of retail, leisure and residential use in the area.
 
There are also proposals to improve the public environment by including a new link to the metro station and creating an attractive new streetscape.
 
The Orchard is located within the Bilston Town Centre Conservation area and currently encompasses a variety of small specialist retail and commercial premises, alongside empty buildings and vacant land.
 
The council began a six-week consultation exercise on Friday, 25 July, with the aim of working closely with land and property owners and the public regarding the future of The Orchard. Comments are invited up to Friday, 5 September.

Councillor Paddy Bradley, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Enterprise, said: “We want local people, and anyone who works in or visits the area, to give us their ideas and aspirations for the future of The Orchard. Their views and comments will form part of the council’s vision for the neighbourhood.”  

People who cannot visit on Thursday can find out more at www.wolverhampton.gov.uk/areaplans  or view proposals at reception desk 24 on the second floor of the Civic Centre. Anyone with a comment can send it by email to project.implementation@wolverhampton.gov.uk or phone 01902 551120.

Issued by the press office.