A run-down shopping precinct which has caused misery to residents from fly-tipping, anti-social behavior and noise pollution for over a decade, could soon be snapped up by Walsall Council.
A petition has been handed in by Cllr Adam Hicken on behalf of 460 residents who want the shopping area on Nottingham Drive to be taken over by Walsall Council. The petition has also been backed by local MP Eddie Hughes.
Local resident Charles Moran said “This area has become an eye-sore with no sign of improvement from the landowner. I really hope that the Council listens to people who live here and get this sorted out once and for all”.
Back in August 2016, local residents reported hearing an explosion at the Pizza Stop, one of the shops at the shopping precinct. Several homes had to be evacuated whilst fire crews tackled the flames (Express & Star 29 Aug 2016).
Local Cllr Adam Hicken said “We have worked hard over the last few years to try and improve the area but it is an uphill battle and we cannot afford to sit idly by and let people bring it down. This is clearly in the public interest and I am determined to get the best deal possible for residents and if that means that the Council has to take it over to fix it, then so be it”.
Cabinet members will now decide whether to use Compulsory Purchase Powers to take the area into Council control.
