The Stourport Civic Society recently submitted a successful Asset of Community Value application to help protect the land after Wyre Forest District Council revealed plans to sell off the car park.
There were previous plans to develop the former Lloyds Garage site into a gateway to town’s historic basins after the council acquired the land more than a decade ago.
The civic society has now revealed a new proposed scheme for including 14,000 square feet of commercial, retail and leisure space and 22 new apartments.
It would also enhance the basin area with new quays, footpaths, street trees, and long-term boat moorings. Additionally, it proposes widening the lower part of Engine Lane to improve access to the Engine Basin car park, ensuring safer, more efficient movement of both vehicles and pedestrians.
A drawing of the new development on Bridge Street (Image: Stourport Civic Society)
Andrew Booton, chairman of Stourport Civic Society, shared his enthusiasm for the project.
He said: “Our updated proposal simplifies the scheme, minimising risk and ensuring financial viability. It is deliverable within a shorter timeframe, has gained support from local businesses and landowners, and fulfils the original goal of connecting the town centre with Brindley’s historic basins.
“It will create jobs, bring new residents into the town centre, and boost the area’s long-term vitality.”
The civic society has said its “heritage-led proposal” has been designed to complement the conservation area, enhance the character of Bridge Street and revitalise this key gateway to the town.
They have said it’s been developed by experienced town planners and developers, with input from surveyors to validate its financial viability.
Wyre Forest District Council recently revealed it plans on closing the temporary car park and selling off the land after failing to find a “viable development” for the site.
Councillor Dan Morehead, Wyre Forest District Council’s cabinet member for economic regeneration, planning and the green agenda, previously said: “It is disappointing but market forces over many years have not been favourable, developers have not been forthcoming, and this site is not sustainable for the council in its present form”.
Plans drawn up by the civic society (Image: Stourport Civic Society)
Mr. Booton added: “As a civic society, we are committed to championing the interests of our community.
“Planning should be a collaborative process that involves and benefits local people – it should be done with us not to us.
“Our proposal shows what is possible, re-affirms the public interest in this area and invites more transparent conversations to help deliver it.
“We have initiated what we hope will be constructive dialogue with Wyre Forest District Council. Should the land become available for sale, its designation as an Asset of Community Value gives us the option to bid.
“We believe our proposals now offer a compelling and practical solution for Stourport’s future and hope to work with the council and others to deliver a scheme that benefits everyone.”