Walsall town centre is undergoing a significant transformation, with more than £70 million secured to support regeneration projects and visible progress made throughout 2025.
This includes £20.25 million from the Community Regeneration Partnership (CRP) fund, secured in February 2025, contributing to a wider £1.5 billion programme of investment across the borough. Over the past year, several key schemes have moved from planning into delivery, bringing renewed energy to the town centre.
Reviving the town centre
At the heart of the transformation is the Connected Gateway Project, designed to improve connectivity between the town’s bus and rail stations while enhancing retail spaces and the overall visitor experience.
A major milestone was reached in October 2025 with the completion of the first phase, which saw the full refurbishment of Bradford Mall within the Saddlers Centre. The restoration also marked the return of the much-loved Three Men in a Boat automaton.
Work is continuing with the appointment of contractor Keir to deliver the next phase. This includes redevelopment of Park Mall and the planned demolition of buildings on Park Street in early 2026 to create a new public plaza and strengthen links between transport hubs.
Improving connections and public spaces
Further improvements are planned to strengthen connections across the town centre. A new canal footbridge is due to be delivered in 2026, linking residential areas near the canal basin with Crown Wharf and the wider town centre.
In addition, a new canal maintenance barge, Sister Dora, was launched in November 2025. Operated by the Canal & River Trust, it will support the upkeep of local waterways and contribute to the long-term enhancement of Walsall’s canal network.
Restoring heritage and creating opportunity
The restoration of the Grade II* listed Guildhall is another key project progressing through 2025, with completion expected in summer 2026. Once reopened, it will operate as a Creative Industries Enterprise Centre, providing flexible workspace and opportunities for local businesses and community use.
Meanwhile, plans are advancing to transform the former Marks & Spencer building into a new Adult Learning Centre. The facility will support skills development and employability, with construction expected to begin in 2026 ahead of a planned opening in September 2027.
Investment in young people has also been a focus, with the opening of a new youth hub, Our Place, in the Saddlers Centre. Since launching in July 2025, it has welcomed over 1,300 visits from young people.
A long-term vision
In December 2025, the council approved a new Town Centre Framework, setting out a long-term vision for Walsall as a greener, healthier and more accessible place. The framework will guide development over the next 15 to 20 years, shaping investment in infrastructure, public spaces, culture and community facilities.
As projects continue into 2026 and beyond, further visible changes are expected across the town centre, with regeneration driven by partnership working, community input and long-term planning.
“ The past year has been truly transformational for Walsall. We are seeing major regeneration schemes move from paper into delivery, and residents can now feel and see positive change taking shape. Whether it’s the refurbishment of Bradford Mall, the return of Three Men In a Boat, the renewal of the Guildhall, the planned canal footbridge, or the arrival of the new Adult Learning Centre, these projects show our long-term commitment to building a thriving town centre that serves local people. With more investment still to come, the next two years will be even more exciting. “
Councillor Adrian Andrew, Deputy Leader
Walsall Council