Decision Looms on 16-Acre Distribution Centre in Wolverhampton Green Space
Councillors are set to decide on a controversial distribution centre in Wolverhampton, sparking concerns over green space loss and traffic issues
Wolverhampton, UK, Distribution Centre, Green Space, Planning
Wolverhampton: There’s a big decision coming up about a new distribution centre on some green fields. The site is off Neachells Lane, right on the edge of the city.
This centre would not just be a warehouse; it includes offices, over 300 parking spots, and space for 60 lorries. It’s a pretty big deal, sitting on a 31-acre plot next to a school and some industrial areas.
Interestingly, this land has a bit of history. It used to be a coal mine, then a landfill, and was turned into public space in the ’90s. It’s even part of a project to boost tree planting in the area.
The plans have been on the table for over a year, and the City of Wolverhampton Council is set to discuss them on January 21. Some locals are not happy, saying it will eat up green space and cause more traffic jams.
Some folks think the remaining green area will be too small to enjoy. They also wonder if there are better spots for a distribution centre, especially with so many empty warehouses nearby.
A council report suggests that the benefits, like job creation and financial investment, might outweigh the downsides of losing some green space. It claims the traffic impact won’t be too bad either.
The report also mentions that to make up for the lost green space, there’s a plan to put £150,000 towards a new playground and £550,000 for improvements in East Park. This land was even considered for employment use back in 2021.
Interestingly, there was a plan for a driving range on this site over a decade ago, but that never went through. So, it’ll be interesting to see what happens next!