Detailed Plans Submitted for Stourbridge Rolling Mills Apartments Development
Dudley Council planning officers are currently reviewing a detailed application for the construction of ten new one-bedroom apartments on the former Rolling Mills site in Stourbridge. This brownfield location, situated north of Bradley Road, has already received outline permission for residential development, paving the way for this specific proposal.
Historic Site Adjacent to Hospital and River
The proposed development occupies a strategically important position, directly adjacent to Stourside Hospital and bordering the River Stour. Lever Turner Cowdell architects, representing the application, have emphasized the project's sustainable credentials in their supporting statement.
The architects stated: "This proposal represents an attractive and highly sustainable form of development, making efficient use of derelict, previously developed land. It will deliver a much-needed housing type that addresses local housing requirements directly."
Infrastructure and Amenities Included in Proposal
The development plan includes comprehensive infrastructure to support residents and promote sustainable transport options:
- A landscaped car park providing 11 parking spaces
- Two designated disabled parking bays within the car park
- Two electric vehicle charging points for future residents
- A secure shelter with capacity for ten bicycles
Healthcare Funding Request from Integrated Care Board
The Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB), serving as a formal consultee in the planning process, has raised concerns about the development's impact on local healthcare services. Their analysis projects that the new apartments will generate additional demand for primary care in the area.
An ICB report explained: "Based on an average household size of 2.4 persons, reflecting the nature of the proposed one-bedroom units, this development is likely to introduce approximately 24 additional patients to local healthcare services."
Consequently, the ICB has formally requested a financial contribution from the developers through a Section 106 agreement, which would be imposed as a condition of planning approval. The specific amount requested totals £10,009.78, intended to support the development and expansion of primary care services directly affected by the increased patient population.
Parallel Development in Halesowen
In a related development within the Dudley borough, Halesowen planners have received a separate application for residential construction. This proposal concerns the former Pioneer House site on Birmingham Street, where developers seek to build 23 new houses.
The Halesowen scheme would feature a mix of three-bedroom house designs on the currently vacant land, which also enjoys proximity to the River Stour. This application demonstrates continued residential development pressure across the borough, particularly on brownfield and previously developed sites.
The Stourbridge Rolling Mills application now awaits formal determination by Dudley Council planning authorities, who must balance housing needs against infrastructure requirements and community impacts.
