Shipping containers are part of the city’s overhaul plans

Proposals for a site made from shipping containers and a cinema have been included in a plan to overhaul the town centre.

Sandwell Council has unveiled schemes to revitalize Wednesbury as part of a ‘masterplan’.

New cycle lanes in Victoria Street, Dudley Street, High Bullen and Trouse Lane are also included.

The documents also mention “cycling hubs” in Union Street and Wednesbury Great Western Street tube station for bike parking and e-bike charging.

Shipping containers would be used to create a boxpark-style venue, similar to those in London, to provide a space for independent businesses, food and drink stalls, live music and an outdoor cinema.

The city’s Gaumont cinema in Walsall Street, which closed in 2010 and was left to fall into disrepair, could also be converted and reopened as a new cinema and theater under plans.

But the site could also be used as an arcaded entertainment complex of a bowling alley or adventure golf, or as an art, events and exhibition space.

New bars and restaurants would also be included.

“Reinvigorated”

The plans also include empty spaces in High Bullen, Union Street and Victoria Street as potential sites for more than 100 new flats, supported housing, health centres, shops, bars and restaurants.

Dudley Street and High Bullen could also see simplified junctions and crossings, cut lanes and more trees planted so they are less ‘cut’.

Sandwell Council said the masterplan would be used as a “guide” in its decisions, as well as helping to access money – particularly government funding.

Church Hill’s green space could also be ‘reinvigorated’ with new links to the town center as well as becoming a ‘destination’ children’s play area.

Long-term plans include more events such as markets and celebrations, new heritage signs and public art with more trees and plants.

The number of car parks could also be reduced under the proposals, with improvements to Morrisons and Spring Head car parks.

This news was collected by Local Democracy Reporting Service covering councils and other public service organisations.

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