A row of derelict shops in Cradley looks set to be developed after Dudley Council took ownership of the site “at long last”.
The council has this week completed the purchase of 122, 124 and 126 Colley Gate following the serving of a Compulsory Purchase Order in January 2023.
The local authority now owns all four derelict shops, which are standing empty on the corner of Colley Gate and Colley Lane.
The council is currently assessing delivery options for the redevelopment of the site following planning approval for a block of eight apartments in April 2022.
Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said:
"I have made it clear that regeneration is a top priority for the council in the year ahead and regenerating this corner of the borough is no exception.
"It’s been a long road to get to this point and I thank local people for bearing with us, but our patience and perseverance has paid off and we are now in a position to take this development forward."
Councillor Paul Bradley, deputy leader of Dudley Council, said:
"At long last we have taken ownership of these properties, which have been a blot on the landscape for too long.
"For many years we have listened to the concerns of residents and worked to bring these properties into council ownership.
"I know this project means a great deal to local people and I hope they welcome this major milestone, which will allow us to move forward with plans to demolish the properties and regenerate this corner of our borough."