Earlier this week, Sarah Coombes visited our Swan Lane development to see how the housing scheme is transforming a disused industrial site and the lives of those living there.
Having visited during the early stages of construction, Sarah Coombes MP returned to the Swan Lane development, which will provide a total of 147 new homes.
The new homes at Swan Lane are being built by Midlands-based construction firm Morro Partnerships on the site of a former gas works.
To date, 40 households have moved into the scheme. During her visit, Sarah Coombes MP met some of the residents who have made their home at Swan Lane.
Sarah Coombes MP said: "It was fantastic to return to Swan Lane and see the remarkable transformation of this former gas works site into high-quality homes for local families.
"Across West Bromwich and the wider Black Country, too many people have been waiting far too long for a safe, secure and affordable home, which is why developments like this are so important.
"The Labour Government has made clear that tackling the housing crisis and delivering the next generation of social and affordable housing is a national priority. These new homes will help meet local demand while giving residents the stability and security they deserve."
The Swan Lane scheme meets a variety of local housing needs by providing 41 two-bedroom houses, 24 three-bedroom houses, 17 one-bedroom apartments and 65 two-bedroom apartments.
Our customer, Kerry, said: "I would like to thank GSA and Morro for creating these beautiful homes. In doing so, they have improved the quality of life for me and my neighbours.
"I think the community green space will be a great addition to our estate when it is ready to use."
In addition to providing much-needed affordable and social housing in West Bromwich, our Swan Lane development is leaving a legacy beyond bricks and mortar by creating apprenticeships and providing local primary school children with opportunities to gain insight into the construction industry.
Mary Doria, our Project Manager, said: "We were delighted to welcome Sarah Coombes MP back to our Swan Lane development so she could see the progress that has been made on site.
"As well as creating local jobs and training opportunities, the Swan Lane development has had a positive impact on the local community by making a donation to Smethwick Library, supporting Litter Watch Tipton, and delivering a garden transformation at a nearby supported housing scheme."
Sandwell Council is a key partner in the Swan Lane development and helped secure a £3.2 million grant from the Black Country Local Enterprise Partnership to support delivery of the scheme. This funding contributed towards the significant decontamination of the site.
Ward Councillor Pam Randhawa said: "It is fantastic to see the transformation of the former Swan Lane gas works into a thriving new community, providing 147 much-needed affordable homes for local families.
"This development demonstrates what can be achieved through strong partnership working, and I am particularly pleased that Sandwell Council played a key role in securing funding to help bring this challenging site back into productive use. These new homes will make a real difference to residents while supporting the ongoing regeneration of West Bromwich."
Construction is anticipated to be completed at the Swan Lane development by spring 2027.
