Bilston's £20 Million Decade-Long Revitalisation Plan Set for Council Approval
A comprehensive ten-year vision to revitalise the Midlands town of Bilston, backed by £20 million in funding, is poised to receive approval from councillors next week. The City of Wolverhampton Council's cabinet will convene to discuss the ambitious 'pride in place' regeneration plans, which aim to transform Bilston over the coming decade.
Four-Year Priority Projects and Community-Led Vision
The Labour-run authority has been requested to endorse a 'ten-year vision, four-year investment plan' that prioritises immediate action. Key initiatives include a thorough clean-up and revamp of Bilston High Street, with enhancements to lighting, installation of new benches, CCTV systems, public art, and bollards. Additionally, parks, green spaces, and play areas will benefit from upgrades, while community centres and similar facilities will receive dedicated funding.
A 'pride in place' board, comprising local community, business, and public sector representatives, will serve as the primary decision-making body for the £20 million regeneration strategy. The board emphasises a focus on creating a safer, cleaner, and more vibrant Bilston, ensuring active involvement of young people in shaping the town's future. Investment will also target community hubs, local heritage, arts, and events catering to all age groups and backgrounds.
Return of Bilston Carnival and Heritage Celebrations
A highlight of the regeneration project is the revival of the Bilston Carnival, last held in 2008, which will become an annual flagship event. This initiative is part of a broader series of activities designed to drive footfall and provide engaging activities for residents, while celebrating the town's rich history and heritage. Improved signage and public art will introduce new walking trails that highlight Bilston's historical significance.
Councillor Stephen Simkins, leader of the City of Wolverhampton Council, described the plan as "a long-term commitment to Bilston’s people, shaped locally and backed by major investment." He noted that the carnival's return symbolises community pride, connection, and celebration, with residents set to see enhancements in community facilities, safer public spaces, upgraded high streets, revitalised parks, and new opportunities for youth over the next decade.
Community Consultation and Additional Developments
The regeneration plan was developed following extensive consultation with over 1,000 local residents, who expressed appreciation for Bilston's strong community spirit, friendly atmosphere, market heritage, and good transport links. However, they voiced desires for a cleaner, safer, and more vibrant town with better shops, parks, lighting, and community spaces. Residents emphasised the need for more activities for young people, thriving green spaces, and a lively town centre that celebrates Bilston's identity.
Josie Kelly, chair of the 'pride in place' board, stated, "This is a community-led plan through and through – built from months of local conversations and rooted in what people told us matters most." The board includes diverse stakeholders such as council leaders, MPs, police representatives, business leaders, and youth council members.
Complementing this initiative, a new £20 million health and wellbeing hub is planned for construction next to the Bert Williams leisure centre, while £9 million in improvements to Bilston Market are expected to conclude this summer after delays. Additionally, work continues on the £28 million Foundry Business Park, featuring 15 new units.
Bilston was previously included in the Conservative government's 'Long Term Plan for Towns' in 2023, which allocated £20 million over ten years. Following the 2024 change in government, Labour rebranded it as the Plan for Neighbourhoods, forming part of the 'Pride in Place' programme aimed at revitalising underserved areas.
