New Plans for Former Strykers Bowling Alley Site in Bushbury
Plans have been revealed for a 17,000 square foot self-storage facility and a Starbucks drive-thru on the site of the former Strykers bowling alley in Wolverhampton, more than a decade after it was destroyed by fire. The application from Strykers Development Ltd seeks permission from City of Wolverhampton Council to build the Storage Giant unit, together with office space and 36 parking spaces, on Shaw Road in Bushbury.
A Site Scarred by Fire for 13 Years
The bowling alley, once a popular entertainment hub for families and young people in the Black Country, closed its doors in 2013. Just two months later, in December 2013, a huge blaze swept through the building. More than 100 firefighters from across the West Midlands tackled the inferno, but the structure was completely destroyed. The roof collapsed and the interior was gutted.
Prior to the fire, the abandoned building had been targeted by metal thieves who stole water tanks and copper pipes, causing thousands of pounds in damage. The site has remained vacant since the fire, becoming overgrown and an eyesore for local residents.
Previous Proposals and Current Application
In 2023, Lidl proposed building a supermarket on the site, but those plans were eventually withdrawn for undisclosed reasons. The new proposal aims to bring the land back into productive use. According to the planning application, the self-storage facility will be operated by Storage Giant, and the drive-thru is expected to be a Starbucks outlet. The development also includes office space and parking for 36 vehicles.
A statement accompanying the application says: “The proposal retains employment uses on the land in line with [local plans]. The current site is vacant with unattractive overgrowth and sits in a prime location along the busy Bushbury Lane.”
The statement continues: “The proposed scheme will bring further life to this area with a variety of uses ensuring its continuous use. The design of the storage facility enables flexibility should the need arise in the future, ensuing longevity on the site, as does the drive-thru unit.”
Potential Impact and Next Steps
The development is expected to create jobs during construction and operation, though specific employment figures are not included in the application. The site is located on Bushbury Lane, a main road through the area, which the applicant argues makes it suitable for a drive-thru coffee outlet. Local residents have often complained about the derelict state of the land, and the new proposals could improve the appearance of the street.
The demand for self-storage has grown in recent years, making such facilities a viable use for brownfield sites. The addition of a drive-thru coffee shop could provide a new amenity for residents and passing motorists. The planning application will now be considered by City of Wolverhampton Council. A decision is expected in the coming months. If approved, work could begin later in 2027, bringing new services and economic activity to the Bushbury area.
