Plans to transform the derelict site of a former pub in Walsall are expected to be announced next month. The land on Cresswell Crescent, where the Leathern Bottle once stood, has been a hotspot for anti-social behaviour since it closed 15 years ago.
SEP Properties was granted planning permission in 2012 to demolish the pub and replace it with a block of nine flats, retail shops and a pub. The building was demolisheded but there is no evidence of any construction work at the site. Security boards around the boundary have stood for several years.
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Coun Michael Coulson, for Bloxwich West, brought the topic to full council on Monday to ask if the authority would consider a compulsory purchase of the development. He branded the lack of action at the site a disgrace and said neighbours have had to put up with flytipping and other antisocial behaviour.
Coun Adrian Andrew, deputy leader and portfolio holder for regeneration, said: “Through the dialogue with the current owner of the Leathern Bottle, we understand they are in discussions with the social housing provider, to help them with the redevelopment of this residential site. From my own information that has come to me very recently, there will be a planning application put in by the end of February.
“The council has the ability to exercise compulsory purchase order powers, however, this can only be done where a compelling case of public interest can be shown. If it comes to it, and we need to, then I’m happy to support the compulsory purchase of this site, and many others.”
Coun Andrew also noted the work being done to transform The Eagle, another pub at the opposite end of Creswell Crescent. It closed after a shooting in 2007 and lay derelict after its closure.
Applicant SEP Properties was granted planning permission by Walsall Council to demolish The Eagle and build 17 apartments in 2022. Work is well underway at the site.
Coun Andrew added: “The Eagle, which was probably derelict for longer, you can see what an incredible job they are doing. It might take them a while to do it, but when they do do it, they do a good job.”