£2m development could rejuvenate town centre

By helen draycott news reporter

PLANS to replace former magistrates courts with a new £2 million development which could rejuvenate Aldridge town centre are set to be entered to planning chiefs next week.

Developers Hills Steadfast Investments Ltd (Hills Ltd), who own the currently derelict Aldridge Magistrates Courts building on Rookery Lane, are to seek planning permission from Walsall Council for the new build which will be a mix of work space and luxury apartments.

Subject to permission being granted, the developers – who have formed Aldridge Prime Ltd for the scheme – could have it completed as soon as spring 2011.

David Hill, founder of the Aldridge-based developers, said: "The aim of Aldridge Prime is to revive the area with the help of local people, enterprises and materials in a sustainable way.

"The development is a combination of high spec work space and luxury apartments, set over two stories, in the heart of Aldridge town centre.

"The redevelopment plans include the refurbishment of all of the existing buildings in the old court room area as the commercial centre for small businesses and to build one block for the living space."

The development will provide approximately 9,000sq feet of ground floor space for local businesses and 10 luxury apartments, including a penthouse suite, whilst keeping the previous heritage as a court building in tact.

It is hoped the development will bring more visitors into the town, boosting the existing nearby local businesses.

To kick off the £2 million redevelopment, Hills Ltd is planning a launch event on Wednesday, June 30, from 4-8pm at the old court area site on Rookery Lane, Aldridge.

Local businesses and business owners are invited to go along to view the plans and give their views on the project.

Anyone wishing to attend should RSVP by Monday, June 28, to rsvp@aldridgeprime.co.uk or call 01922 214023.