Residents on a quiet cul-de-sac in Willenhall have voiced strong opposition to a council proposal to build four terraced children's homes on a small, recently cleared green space in Short Heath.
Plans Spark Traffic and Safety Fears
The scheme, for land off Sherlock Close, would provide accommodation for looked-after children from the Walsall area, who may have experienced difficult backgrounds. However, the news has ignited fury among homeowners. One resident, who chose to remain anonymous, criticised the potential for increased traffic and dangerous parking on the corner of the street.
"Why choose there?" she asked. "Why not choose one of the many derelict properties and premises in Willenhall?" She also expressed frustration over the consultation process, revealing that not all 16 neighbouring households received notification letters from Walsall Council about the plans earlier in December.
Static Caravan 'Eyesore' Preceded Proposal
The controversy is compounded by a recent incident where the same green space was cleared of vegetation and a static caravan was placed on it. The rear boundary of the former Eat Fresh cafe on High Road was removed to allow access for the caravan, which one resident said created an eyesore that "brought the neighbourhood down" and resembled a "scrap yard".
The resident claimed the clearance in late October decimated a habitat for local wildlife including foxes, hedgehogs, and badgers. Walsall Council stated that the small area of cleared grass has not impacted wildlife and confirmed that, following its intervention, the caravan was moved from the council-owned land onto private property.
Council Commits to Community Engagement
In response to the concerns, a spokesperson for Walsall Council emphasised the essential role of children's homes in providing stable, supportive environments. The council confirmed an engagement event was held on Monday 8 December 2025, which was well attended, with further opportunities for community feedback promised early in the new year.
"Children’s Services are committed to working with local residents to explain the proposal in detail and answer any questions and concerns," the spokesperson said. "Walsall Council is focused on ensuring that children in our care can live locally within our communities."
Despite these assurances, some residents remain sceptical, with one fearing the decision is a "done deal" and that the land will be sold to a developer if the children's home plan falls through.
