Deserted pub could be turned into flats

A derelict pub will make way for a four-storey apartment block, if newly submitted plans are given the go-ahead.

The former New Navigation Inn, on Old Birchills, Walsall, could be converted into one and two-bedroom flats.

The site is next to Walsall Canal and is within the Walsall Locks Conservation Area.

Historically, the New Navigation Inn would have provided a rest-stop for boatmen transporting goods, and it later served as a pub until its closure around the time of the Covid pandemic.

The proposed regeneration would result in nine one-bedroom apartments, nine two-bedroom apartments, a shared courtyard with four car parking spaces, a bike shed, and a communal roof terrace.

In the planning statement, agent JBVJ Architects said the proposals would boost "a neglected site that is in need of repair and development" and would make good use of "prime canalside locations".

"The Public House is severely damaged and has experienced failed commercial tenancies given the economic climate and location," it added.

The application states the building is severely damaged internally and externally, and could pose potential risk to pedestrians passing by if work to shore it up is not undertaken.

If the plans are approved, applicant Redstar Estate Ltd will retain the access off Green Street, one of the access roads to the new nearby Lockside housing estate.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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