Walsall Council has welcomed a new report confirming that the Bloxwich Launchpad project has generated more than £1.23 million in social value, significantly surpassing its original target of £277,000.
The figure represents 68% of the project’s overall contract value and reflects a strong focus on delivering wider community benefits alongside physical regeneration.
Developed in partnership with Speller Metcalfe, the scheme transformed a former Post Office building into a modern digital hub. The Launchpad now offers residents access to IT facilities, digital skills training, employment support and flexible business space for entrepreneurs and start-ups.
A key aim of the project was to prioritise local suppliers and ensure that investment remained within the Walsall area. The report found that more than £1.19 million of project spending was directed through local supply chains, including materials, labour and subcontractors based in the borough and within a 30-mile radius.
Councillor Mike Bird, Leader of Walsall Council, said:
“ Bloxwich Launchpad is a shining example of how major investment projects can do much more than renovate a building they can create jobs, strengthen local suppliers and make real community impact. By prioritising local businesses first, we have kept the Walsall pound in Walsall, supporting our own employers, our own young people and our borough’s economy.
I am delighted that this project has delivered more than four times its planned social value and that local companies, apprentices and students have directly benefited. This is exactly the type of responsible regeneration we want to see across our borough: modern facilities, thriving businesses and real opportunity for residents. “
Local subcontractors involved in the project covered a wide range of trades, including electrical, roofing, groundworks, scaffolding and specialist glazing, helping to support employment and strengthen the local economy.
The scheme also delivered a number of training and educational opportunities. These included 13 weeks of apprenticeship and T-Level training, 86 site visits for students and young people, and 13 weeks of unpaid placements. Overall, 81% of the supply chain was classified as local.
In addition to economic benefits, the project contributed to community initiatives, including a litter-picking event near Walsall College, where volunteers collected 13 bags of waste in one hour, as well as supporting local community funding programmes.
Kate Moore, Social Value Lead at Speller Metcalfe, said:
“ We are extremely proud of the Bloxwich Launchpad build, not only for its high-quality refurbishment but for the meaningful legacy it leaves behind. From day one, our focus was to maximise local impact supporting Walsall suppliers, creating learning opportunities and ensuring investment stayed within the community. Working with Walsall Council has demonstrated how construction can genuinely deliver lasting socio-economic benefits, and we are thrilled to see the local businesses, trainees and community groups all benefiting from this project. “
The Launchpad forms part of Walsall Council’s wider regeneration programme, which focuses on improving town centres, supporting local businesses and creating new opportunities for residents.
The council has confirmed it will continue to prioritise social value in future projects, ensuring that investment delivers long-term benefits for communities across the borough.