Plans to turn the former premises of the Walsall Advertiser on Bradford Street, which has stood empty for over seven years, are taking shape with developers planning to undertake substantial work to convert it into a HMO.
The Grade II listed building, which was built around 1830, also housed The Midland Business Management College until it closed in 2015, and now developer BAC Property Investments Limited wants to create a three-storey building consisting of 18 bedrooms.
These rooms will be available to rent individually.
Agents PUUC Architecture Limited said: “The HMO will be finished to a very high standard and will provide much-needed, affordable and quality residential accommodation.
“Given the nature of the accommodation, it appeals to occupants with limited disposable income who are not likely to own vehicles.
“Therefore, the demand for on or off-street parking is likely to be greatly reduced and there will be no significant increase in noise, traffic, or general activity associated with the use of the property.
“A detailed Heritage Statement also details the restoration process to save this important building from further deterioration and restoring it to provide residential accommodation and a visually acceptable Grade II Listed Building once again.
“Buildings in disuse immediately damage the character and quality of an area.
“Returning the application site to permanent use, and specifically a use where no unreasonable noise levels, trade waste or anti-social behaviour is likely to cause concerns for neighbouring residents and businesses, is expected to be an overwhelmingly positive development for the local region.”
A HMO is a property rented out to multiple people and consists of shared facilities, such as a bathroom, toilet or cooking facilities, and offers an affordable housing option for tenants.