Wednesbury Council Approves HMO Conversion for Former Pub

Introduction

Sandwell Council in Wednesbury has given approval to change the long-empty Forge Tavern into a home shared by several people. The building, on Furnace Street, will become a House in Multiple Occupation. This move is the second of its kind in eight years. Past plans tried to use the property for community work but did not pass.

History of the Forge Tavern

The Forge Tavern has stood empty since it closed in 2016. Over the years, several plans came forward to use the site again. Some groups wanted to run Islamic lessons in the building. Others suggested a centre for locals. The local council did not agree with these plans. They raised issues with parking and busy traffic on nearby streets.

The council checked each plan with care. In 2018 and again in 2021, plans for the lessons centre were turned down. Many looked at the low public transport connections and high parking needs as problems.

The Approved Plans

The approval was given at a planning meeting on April 2, 2025. The plan will change the Forge Tavern into an HMO for eight residents. The pub’s bar on the ground floor will not change now. Instead, that space will be saved for later work. Any future changes in that area will need a new plan.

The council planners say the HMO work will help the local area. They note that fixing up the empty building into an eight-bed home will remove a long-standing eyesore.

Local Concerns

Even with approval, the committee got four objections. Neighbors worry about loss of parking and possible rowdy behaviour. The plan gives ten parking spots, and the committee believes that these will meet local needs.

Future Implications

This decision shows a trend in housing today. With growing demand for rental homes, converting old buildings into HMOs can meet housing needs. Many who build or invest in property may study this case. It can help them work through issues seen in busy areas.

Conclusion

Sandwell Council has chosen to convert the Forge Tavern into an HMO to meet local housing needs and to improve the area. As towns change, work on older properties like this one will play an important role in the community. Those who follow property markets should watch this work as it shows how housing can change over time.

For further updates on housing work, investor news, and local events, keep an eye on trusted sites such as the Birmingham Live and other local news pages.

Sources

• Birmingham Live: Ruling on HMO plans for empty Wednesbury pub
• Sandwell Council Planning Committee Meeting Records
• Local Property Development News Websites

Staying aware of local changes, such as the move to create more shared homes, is key for those who build or invest in property.

Disclaimer: This article has been generated by AI based on the latest news from Google News sources. While we strive for accuracy, we recommend verifying key details from official reports.