Plans for 60 new homes on the site of a former Wolverhampton warehouse that burned down five years ago have been approved. Stonebond Properties received the green light from City of Wolverhampton Council on July 28, 2026, to build a mix of houses and flats on Craddock Street in Whitmore Reans.
Fire and Site History
The site was previously occupied by an Xercise4Less gym and a warehouse. In December 2021, a major fire broke out, requiring around 80 firefighters to tackle the blaze in the early hours of December 6. The building was destroyed, leaving the land vacant.
Stonebond submitted a planning application in March 2026, proposing a range of one to four-bedroom houses and maisonettes. According to the design and access statement, the development includes 'various sizes' of units to cater to different needs.
Council Decision
City of Wolverhampton Council issued a notice of permission, subject to conditions. The decision stated: 'The objections raised have been considered, and the benefits of the scheme as set out in the submitted documents outweigh the concerns raised. There will not be an impact on the character of the area, neighbours’ amenities or highway safety that would have justified a reason for refusing the application. The proposal is therefore in accordance with the development plan.'
The council's approval marks a significant step forward for the regeneration of the site, which has remained unused since the fire.
Design and Sustainability
The project review conclusion from March highlighted that the final scheme benefited from input from various parties. It noted: 'The comments from all parties have been carefully considered and the design proposal has been adapted to take these comments into account. The landscaping and formality of the proposal have been designed to help create a sense of legibility throughout the Site as a whole. Sustainability underpins the design approach in all the decisions made and consulted on in the comprehensive master planning approach itself.'
The development is described as a sustainable, respectful addition to the area, providing a mix of high-quality family homes. The housing mix includes one, two, three, and four-bedroom properties, as well as maisonettes.
Community Impact
Local residents had raised objections, but the council determined that the benefits of the scheme, including new housing supply and site regeneration, outweighed any concerns. The development is expected to bring new residents to the area and contribute to the local economy.
The application was handled by Stonebond Properties, a Birmingham-based company, and the design was prepared by Roberts Limbrick. Further details of the approved plans can be accessed via the council's planning portal.
