Plans to transform Wolverhampton’s city centre with hundreds of new homes have taken a major step forward, as West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker and the City of Wolverhampton Council back a multi-million-pound investment into the Smithgate regeneration scheme.
The West Midlands Combined Authority, chaired by the Mayor, has agreed in principle to support the development, which will revitalise Market Square and surrounding areas. The scheme is being delivered by ECF – a partnership between L&G, Homes England, and Muse – and is set to become Wolverhampton’s largest regeneration opportunity.
The first phase of the project, known as Bicycle Works, will deliver around 331 new homes, retail opportunities and public spaces overlooking Market Square.
Once complete, Smithgate will span 12 acres, linking School Street and Darlington Street to Market Square. It will include:
- Up to 1,000 homes
- 20,000 sq ft of retail, leisure and commercial space
The scheme is a key part of the Mayor’s Growth Plan, which aims to:
- Create 100,000 good jobs
- Build 120,000 homes
- Improve public transport
- Get tens of thousands of residents into work
West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker commented:
“This scheme will be a catalyst for growth in Wolverhampton, providing hundreds of badly needed homes.
“People living in these new homes can look forward to having restaurants, shops and leisure facilities right on their doorstep, helping to breathe new life and vibrancy into this part of the city centre.
“At a time when too many families are waiting too long for a decent place to call home it is regeneration schemes like this one that will be a cornerstone of my Growth Plan to reignite our regional economy, raise living standards and provide the housing we need.”
Smithgate follows other major investments in the city, including the £20 million Canalside South regeneration scheme, announced in February. That project will deliver 500+ new homes, including 109 affordable properties, across the former British Steel and Crane Foundry sites, which have been derelict for 15 years.
Together, these developments signal a new era of urban renewal, economic growth, and housing delivery in Wolverhampton.
Image credit: iStock
