Public inquiry on land ownership for University site
Plans to build a £25million university campus in Dudley look likely to go to a public inquiry to determine land details.
The higher education facility is planned for Castle Hill as part of the Towns Fund project and will provide courses for the health sector.
Part of the site has now been cleared and the council has been working with the owners of other buildings on the site to complete the land assembly to allow the construction to begin.
Following the council’s decision in 2022 to pursue a compulsory purchase order (CPO) if needed to progress the project, a date for the formal Inquiry has now been set for May 14-17 to determine a way forward.
The Inquiry will be chaired by a government planning inspector who will decide if the council can acquire the buildings on the site.
A report was considered at a meeting of the cabinet last night (Mon) and members noted the progress on the scheme including the need for a public inquiry.
Senior members also agreed £1.8million in the capital programme to finance the project to help with any delays in securing the land and support any inflationary pressures which may occur.
The rest of the money has come as part of the government’s Towns Fund project, with Dudley being one of only 100 councils nationally to receive money.
Councillor Paul Bradley, deputy leader of Dudley Council, said:
“When complete this project will be a massive boost for education, training and skills in this borough and there is a lot to be excited about.”
Planning approval was granted in 2021 for the further education building on the site of the former Hippodrome and bingo hall.
Amendments to the Approved scheme involving alterations to the entrance, removal of some roof lights to allow better natural light, and some window / elevation adjustments, was agreed earlier this year.
The project is spearheaded by the Towns Fund Board – a partnership between the council, Dudley College of Technology, University of Worcester, tourist attractions and other key organisations in Dudley.
Documents relating to the CPO will be available at Dudley Council Plus for public inspection. If the council is successful, the project is anticipated to start on site in January 2025 and complete by summer 2026.