Dudley’s regeneration efforts have come under sharp criticism from a former mayor who described the town centre as “ruined” and called for urgent action rather than further discussion.
Councillor David Stanley voiced his concerns during a meeting of the Dudley Council Communities and Growth Scrutiny Committee held on 28 September. The committee was examining a report outlining the current status of regeneration across the borough and the strategic plans for the coming year.
The report highlighted the council’s intention to consolidate the strongest aspects of existing strategies to form a cohesive growth plan for Dudley. However, Cllr Stanley emphasised the reality on the ground, particularly citing neglected and dilapidated sites in Dudley’s town centre.
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He specifically mentioned the Portersfield area, recalling the long-discussed Cavendish House site, which was demolished some time ago, yet has seen little development since. He said, “I’d like to know what the future is with that. We also have a new interchange, but right in front of it stands a derelict pub that remains untouched.”
Cllr Stanley painted a bleak picture for those arriving in Dudley, adding, “When you get off the tram or the bus, the place is falling apart. When you walk up the town, it is ruined.”
The councillor also criticised the state of the local market, noting it appeared under-occupied compared to thriving markets in other Black Country towns. “It’s good to see a report, but we need the action to go with that, and simply, we are not getting it,” he added.
In the report’s foreword, Councillor Simon Phipps, Dudley’s cabinet member for growth and infrastructure, acknowledged the importance of a unified approach to development. He stated, “Dudley is moving from a collection of individual programmes towards a coherent approach to growth and place – one that connects evidence and insight to priorities, investment, delivery and measurable outcomes. Without a compelling articulation of our priorities, needs, ambitions, offer and ask, it is much harder to build confidence or leverage public and private investment.”
Responding directly to Cllr Stanley’s concerns, Cllr Phipps assured that, despite delays, progress was underway. He said, “Regarding Portersfield, it has taken a significant amount of time and we are still where we are, but it is far from the truth that nothing is being done. The team is working closely with the West Midlands Combined Authority to ensure regeneration and delivery of projects in this critical part of town.”