This will be the stunning image of Dudley’s historic skyline if an £82million leisure and retail complex gets the green light.
The images of the Portersfield development, which have been released show shops and bars, linked by open plan walkways for shoppers.
Key to the plans at the top of Castle Hill is the demolition of the eyesore Cavendish House.
A planning application has been submitted to Dudley Council planners by developer Avenbury, which will be considered by the development control committee later this year, and could see the building razed this autumn.
If approved it will mark a key step in creating the huge development which will include new shops, a cinema, bars and restaurants, a gym and accommodation for students – creating more than 500 jobs.
Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council, said: said:
“This is a significant step towards creating a bustling town centre environment with shops, bars and restaurants.
“It still has to go through the normal planning procedure but if approved this will be the biggest development in Dudley in decades.
“This really feels like an exciting chapter for our history books, in the heart of the historic capital of the Black Country.”
A spokesperson for Avenbury, added:
“This is an extremely exciting project that will be a game changer for Dudley, alongside all of the other major infrastructure and redevelopment projects that are happening in the town.
“Dudley is finally getting the investment and recognition it deserves and we’re proud to be playing a part in shaping its future.”
When complete, Portersfield will link in with the proposed new bus station and connect with the planned £353million Midland Metro extension through the town.
The planning application to demolish the eight-storey former offices at Cavendish House has been submitted to council planners. It will be determined by development control later this year. A planning application for the wider development has not yet been submitted by the developers.
