The century-old Corks Social Club in Bearwood, Smethwick, a former working men’s club and community hub, is set to be transformed into new housing despite concerns over parking.
Tusq Construction’s redevelopment plan, recently approved by Sandwell Council, will convert the derelict building into townhouses and flats. Part of the site will also be repurposed into retail space to support local businesses.
Situated at the corner of Sherwood Road and Bearwood Road, the plan involves adding an extra storey to create three-level townhouses. However, no on-site parking spaces have been included, sparking objections from the council’s highways department. Officials highlighted that up to 24 parking spaces would be necessary to meet the area’s needs, calling the lack of parking “unacceptable.”
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Despite these concerns, council planners justified their approval by comparing the proposed residential use to the building’s previous functions. The club previously housed a large first-floor function room with bars, hosting events that generated significant on-street parking. The planners noted that residential dwellings typically create less parking demand than event venues.
The report stated: “Given the town-centre location, the availability of sustainable transport options, and the significantly higher trip rates associated with the existing use, there is no evidence to suggest the proposed development would cause harmful highway impacts exceeding those of the existing use.”
The aging building, now with a crumbling roof that leaks rain, was previously a vibrant venue for community events including birthday parties, weddings, theatre, choirs, Latin dance classes, and jazz concerts. It was notably the home of jazz legend Andy Hamilton’s Silvershine Jazz Club, attracting some of the biggest names in jazz.
The redevelopment aims to preserve the building’s structure while improving its appeal and living standards, introducing seven new homes and creating opportunities for local businesses. According to the application statement, the project seeks to positively contribute to Bearwood’s street scene and community, fostering local regeneration.
The Corks Social Club was listed as an asset of community value by Sandwell Council. However, due to declining trade and rising operating costs, the club entered administration in August last year. Administrators Grant Thornton arranged the sale of the building to cover debts, with a final sale price of £740,000 in January.
A local nonprofit, Bearwood Community Hub, launched a campaign to raise over £100,000 to secure the building, but efforts were unsuccessful.
This redevelopment reflects the challenges faced by historic community venues adapting to changing economic realities, as the Corks Social Club makes way for new housing in the heart of Bearwood.