New £20 million improvements to Brierley Hill town centre approved

It includes the refurbishment of Brierley Hill Civic and the police station building next door, as well as improvements to the Moor Centre.

The cash is through the government’s Local Regeneration Fund (LRF), formerly known as the Levelling Up Fund.

The great majority of it – around £15 million – was going to Dudley College to develop a new Transport Technologies Centre in the town.

But the college has now decided not to pursue the project, leading to a new list of schemes to benefit from the spend being drawn up.

Also included is a number of projects around the Metro, including the creation of a public square at the terminus station.

The town’s Heritage Action Zone (HAZ), which funds repairs to historic buildings, will be extended.

Dudley Council’s cabinet approved the new list at a meeting last night. (Wed)

Councillor Simon Phipps, cabinet member for economy and infrastructure, said:

“These changes to the Brierley Hill programme focus on the refurbishment of existing buildings, rather than the creation of new facilities.

“It will also see improved connectivity and develop better links between Brierley Hill, the new Metro terminus and the Merry Hill Centre.

“It is an opportunity to deliver a real shot in the arm for the town, to drive more trade and footfall and create new jobs.”

Halesowen is also to receive £20 million through the LRF.

Cabinet was told the original list of projects for Halesowen remains unchanged, and includes the redevelopment of the Pool Road multi-storey car park in the town.