Eyesore Site To Become Student Accommodation

10 February 2026
ShareSave


Christian BarnettLocal Democracy Reporter, Wolverhampton


New trainee lodging and stores will be developed as part of an effort to revive an 100-year-old city centre structure.


A preparation application to transform the building at 2-5 Princess Street, Wolverhampton, into 22 trainee flats and brand-new retail systems has actually been approved by City of Wolverhampton Council.


The stated the "significant investment" would bring jobs in addition to stores and lodging to an uninhabited structure.


Plans submitted by PH8 Investments show the previous ground floor shop, which has been empty for a years, would be converted into brand-new retail systems.


The "underused" upper floors would be become trainee lodging and the building's basement would also be converted into a health club, sauna and steam bath for trainees.


A report from the council outlining the decision stated: "The proposals would create significant financial investment, including great quality student lodging and re-using existing commercial area at this important place. This is most likely to develop job opportunity here.


"There are a variety of prospective drinking facilities close by, nevertheless, there are a number of existing domestic usages currently in this area and for that reason, it is unlikely that introducing student accommodation here would be damaging to the night-time economy or the practicality of the centre."


Most of the near-100-year-old Art Deco building, nestled in between bookmakers Betfred and Paddy Power, has actually been empty because 2015 when furnishings professional E Marsh moved.


They blamed long-running roadworks to pedestrianise Princess Street, claiming it had actually pushed the service "past breaking point."


The former upholsterers, which has actually been empty for several years and has actually become an increasing eyesore, would be converted into brand-new retail units with the planning application stating the space might be utilized for a coffee shop or offices.


A relocate to open a restaurant in the empty structure was approved by the council in 2018 however the work was never ever carried out.


Follow BBC Wolverhampton & Black Country on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.