Following a battle that's lasted a number of years, a date has been revealed for the demolition of a row of 'eyesore' shops in Colley Gate.

Dudley Council has confirmed that, following a review of bids received the demolition process is expected to begin on February 19th and will aim to be complete by 22nd March.

The buildings have had a number of former uses, including takeaways and a newsagents, but have stood empty since the final business closed over three years ago. Liberal Democrat Councillor for Cradley and Wollescote Ryan Priest said:

“For my entire life I’ve only known these buildings to be abandoned. I’m over the moon that work is finally scheduled to bring them down.

“No single politician should take credit for this. It's been decades of work by campaigners, residents, councillors, and officers.”

The work will involve a road closure between February 12th-14th where Caden will be disconnecting the gas supply. There is currently an approved planning application build apartments on the site, but as of yet there is no timeline in place for the beginning of this project.