The next phase of this regeneration is set to make a real difference to residents across the borough: Walsall College plans to relocate its Adult Learning services from their Hawbush and Whitehall sites to more accessible, central town centre locations.

The main hub is proposed for the former M&S building at the Saddlers Shopping Centre – a prominent site that has stood empty since 2018. Once complete, this vibrant new facility will offer a wide range of educational opportunities, from employability skills to business and IT training, helping local people gain the tools they need to thrive in the modern workplace.

Re-purposing this landmark building will not only breathe new life into the town centre but will also form a vital part of Walsall’s wider regeneration strategy.

This is possible thanks to significant funding from Central Government initiatives such as the Future High Street Fund, Town Deal, and Community Regeneration Partnership – alongside investment from Walsall Council – the early phases of the town centre masterplan are already underway.

Projects such as the Connected Gateway are moving forward, with the transformation of the Saddlers Shopping Centre and surrounding areas in Park Street and Station Street now progressing.

Key dates

It is anticipated that the new facilities will begin operations in September 2027, with construction starting in Spring 2026. The planning application is due for submission in late summer 2025. Ahead of this we invite you to comment on the proposal by Friday 29th August 2025.

Have Your Say

Before the planning application is submitted, we want to hear your views on this exciting proposal. Your feedback will help shape the future of adult learning in Walsall.

Please share your thoughts by Friday 29 August 2025 via the Commonplace platform

There will also be further opportunities to provide feedback during the formal planning consultation later this year.