Plans to redevelop derelict former Dudley Council offices to create apartments and a cafe in Halesowen have been welcomed.
The Grade-II listed buildings in Great Cornbow and Hagley Street will be transformed into 24 apartments, a cafe and orangery. It will also see the former landmark James Hobbs hardware shop refurbished as part of the build. Councillor Hilary Bills, who represents the Haleowen North Ward, said:
"I think it is going to be very good because the builders will be keeping the facade the same as the buildings before but just make them look a bit better. There have been three vacant shops that have started to deteriorate, so it will be lovely to see them maintained again.
"It will be a focal point in Halesowen. It is sad that they have stood empty for so long as it must have been the 1990s when Hobbs was last open."
The plans have been put forward by property developer Ruskin. A tap for Halesowen in Bloom members to be able to water plants in the town will also be added as part of the build.
Planning documents state: "These Grade II Listed buildings date from the early C19 Regency period. The modifications will seek to retain the remaining characteristic features of the existing buildings while making modifications which enhance these features where possible.
"The site comprises a series of vacant and largely interconnected buildings with varying commercial uses along with associated external areas to the rear of the buildings, accessed via Pool Road: It lies within Halesowen’s central shopping area, forming a prominent street scene and corner to the main pedestrian thoroughfare.
"The proposals involve converting the buildings to residential apartments and a café/bistro along with associated works including the demolition of existing out buildings, the erection of a new orangery and improvements to the elevations.
"The massing of the buildings will be largely unchanged by the works, designed to be reflective of the architectural styles immediately around them, whilst maintaining a subservience in terms of their massing in relation to the Listed Buildings."
The new residential apartments, once converted, will provide one or two bedrooms, one bathroom or en-suite and kitchen, dining and living space. The bedrooms will be arranged to face to the rear where possible with the living space fronting the street.
