The future of the former Roy Birch hardware shop at 116-118 Lower Lichfield Street in Willenhall is set to be decided by Walsall Council’s planning committee next week. After serving the community for over 50 years, Roy Birch retired in 2023, leaving the large building vacant and available for new development within the Willenhall Conservation Area.
The current proposal seeks to transform the premises into a 12-bedroom House of Multiple Occupation (HMO). This plan has sparked considerable concern among residents and local officials. A petition led by Councillor Simran Cheema has gathered 884 signatures, reflecting worries about the potential oversaturation of HMOs in the area, limited parking availability, and inadequate waste storage solutions.
Additionally, eight formal objections were filed by community members citing similar issues. Another point of contention involves the proximity of two HMO bedrooms to the Classic Academy of Dance opposite the site. Residents worry about privacy and safeguarding, though Walsall Council noted it is the academy’s responsibility to provide necessary protections. Given the academy’s status as a Locally Listed building, installing frosted windows is not preferred. Instead, council officers propose installing glazed windows in the facing bedrooms to mitigate privacy concerns.
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The building’s frontage and interior have undergone unauthorized changes, prompting an enforcement case, though this is currently on hold pending the planning decision. Despite opposition, council officers have recommended approval of the application submitted by Shereen Enterprise. They cited that the renovation would cause “less than substantial harm” to the conservation area but emphasized benefits such as generating much-needed housing and reviving a long-vacant building.
The final verdict will come from Walsall Council’s newly formed planning committee on Thursday, June 18, following recent political changes stemming from the latest council elections.