A canalside development featuring more than 50 new homes is set to transform a factory site in Brierley Hill.

A total of 35 homes and 22 apartments would be built near The Waterfront business park in Brierley Hill, under plans which have been backed by planning officers.

Developers have targeted the former site of car repairs firm BodyKraft, which is currently empty, to continue the regeneration of the area which has seen hundreds of homes built in recent years.

Former factory buildings on the Canal Street site have already been demolished paving the way for work to begin, with the development set to be rubber-stamped by councillors next week. The land is part of the new business and enterprise zone which has been created at The Waterfront to try and attract more business and residents to the area.

All of the homes are expected to be affordable, offering a boost for young people trying to get on the property ladder. Brierley Hill councillor Rachel Harris said the development would be welcome. She said:

"We always welcome new developments, particularly in this area, as long as they are appropriate for needs of local people. It will provide good-quality homes for people who can work in the area."

A final decision on the scheme is due to be made by Dudley Council's planning committee on August 15th. If it goes ahead, it will continue the investment that has flowed into the town.

Business leaders have hailed the creation of the £7 million DY5 enterprise zone, which offers businesses who set up there certain tax benefits.

DY5 will help to rejuvenate the Waterfront office complex and create additional office, technology and industrial space in the surrounding areas of Brierley Hill, Harts Hill and Pensnett. It is expected to boost the local economy by nearly £600 million a year.