The latest phase of works marks an important step in delivering the long-term regeneration of the town centre, creating improved public spaces and better connectivity residents, visitors and businesses.

Ahead of demolition, several heritage features from the site have been carefully removed and placed into secure storage. These items will be preserved for future use, ensuring the area's history continues to be recognised as the work progresses.

“ It's fantastic to see demolition now underway as another key milestone in the Connected Gateway scheme. While regeneration of this scale can inevitably bring some temporary disruption, every stage of the project is moving us closer to a more attractive, better connected town centre.

Once complete, these improvements will help create a town centre that people can be proud of and one that supports businesses, encourages investment and benefits everyone who lives, works and visits Walsall.
“

Councillor Nicky Barker
Deputy Leader of Walsall Council

“ We are delighted to be working with Walsall Council to help deliver this important stage of the Connected Gateway scheme, supporting its wider vision for a more accessible, welcoming and better-connected town centre.

These works will improve links between key transport hubs, enhance the experience for residents, visitors and businesses, and play an important role in attracting footfall, supporting local growth and helping Walsall realise its long-term regeneration ambitions.
“

Tony Shenton
Acting managing director for Kier Construction Eastern & Midlands

Ecological surveys have also now been completed, allowing the project to move forward while ensuring environmental considerations have been fully addressed.

As Kier progresses with demolition, a range of preventative measures are being implemented to minimise disruption. This includes the use of water jets to suppress dust during demolition works, helping to reduce airborne dust and maintain air quality around the site.

Butler's Passage is scheduled to reopen to the public at the end of September. A temporary tarmac surface will be installed to provide safe access while work continues elsewhere on the site, helping to improve pedestrian movement through the town centre.

The Connected Gateway scheme forms part of Walsall Council's wider programme of regeneration, improving links across the town centre and creating high-quality public spaces that support economic growth and make the area more welcoming and accessible.

The town centre developments are part of Walsall borough’s £1.5billion programme of investment, aiming to create opportunities for local people, improve accessibility and transport, and build more homes.

In 2021 Walsall secured funding of £11.4m from the Future High Street Fund and together with further investment from Walsall Council, the Connected Gateway scheme will be delivered as part of the Town Centre Masterplan.