Work to start on area hit by fire
Work to regenerate the fire-ravaged heart of Leegomery is finally expected to begin in the new year following the demolition of a derelict pub, it was revealed today.
Work to regenerate the fire-ravaged heart of Leegomery is finally expected to begin in the new year following the demolition of a derelict pub, it was revealed today.
The long-awaited transformation will be kick-started with the bulldozing of the Thomas Telford pub, off Pool Farm Avenue.
Developers will then be able to push ahead with the building of five new retail units, 13 houses, 58 apartments and a mental health care centre.
The centre of Leegomery was wrecked by a massive blaze in July 2005, which left only the pub and two shops standing.
The flames devastated the Spar store and post office - since demolished - and damaged a fish and chip shop and hair salon, leaving the site in Leegate Avenue an eyesore.
Plans by Halesowen-based Redrow Homes (West Midlands) for new homes and shops sparked controversy among residents, who were angered by the scale of the scheme and got up a petition.
Telford & Wrekin Council originally rejected the scheme but then changed its mind and talks have been going on for the past year with Redrow.
Councillor Pat Smart, chairman of Hadley and Leegomery Parish Council, said she had received a number of calls from concerned residents wanting to know what was happening with the scheme.
Today, Nick Sykes, Telford & Wrekin Council spokesman, said: "The Thomas Telford pub will be demolished following the conclusion of legalities between the authority and Redrow.
"Contracts for the site have been exchanged and there remains to be agreed only very minor matters.
"Demolition of the pub will kickstart works to deliver a new centre."