Sandwell Council has approved plans for a two-storey block of 12 affordable flats on the corner of Horseley Road and Railway Street in Tipton, directly opposite the under-construction Horseley Road stop of the delayed Midlands Metro extension from Wednesbury to Dudley.
Addressing Critical Housing Shortage
The application, submitted by SWG Construction and Sandwell Council, aims to tackle what housing officers describe as a “critical shortage” of three and four-bedroom flats for families needing more space. According to council figures, waiting times for larger flats are severe: nearly a year for one-bed flats for those with non-emergency needs, over four years for three-bed flats, and almost nine years for four-bed flats.
The proposed development includes a mix of flat sizes to meet this demand, with the site identified in Sandwell Council’s local plan for around 50 new homes. Planners noted that the land is not protected as community open space and its development would bring an under-used site back into beneficial use.
Planning Approval and Policy Compliance
In their decision, council planners stated: “The site accords with policy which allows windfall development to come forward on appropriate sites as it’s not protected as community open space and its development would bring an under-used piece of land back into beneficial use. The site has been found suitable for residential development during the preparation of the new local plan and is proposed for allocation. Therefore, the principle of residential development at the site is acceptable and would assist with meeting housing need in the borough.”
Metro Extension Context
The Midlands Metro extension, which has faced significant delays, will include a stop at Horseley Road, placing the new flats within walking distance of public transport. This connectivity is expected to enhance the appeal of the affordable housing, providing residents with direct tram links to Wednesbury and Dudley.
