Cavendish House plans get the green light

11:40am Wednesday 3rd September 2008

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THE transformation of Dudley town skyline has taken a positive step forward as council planners approve plans to demolish an “embarrassing eyesore”.

Members of the Development Control Committee unanimously approved two outline applications from Developer Abstract Group to transform Cavendish House in Trindle Road.

The two applications which both involve the demolition of the run-down former social security building propose to build an office development and a health centre.

The contemporary designed building, which incorporates stone, glass, metal and timber is set to create hundreds of new jobs when full planning permission is granted.

The office development application proposes car parking and landscaping while the other suggests a medical centre for Dudley Primary Care Trust with offices, a cafe, a creche and a pharmacy.

It is hoped the building will also house a number of clinics such as cardiac and respitor, minor surgery, dental, physiotherapy, x ray facilities and paediatric medicine.

Speaking about the development, Michael Best on behalf of the applicant, told the committee about the “overwhelming support” they had received from the public consultation.

He added: “It is an exciting build for a distinctive but unpopular building.

“The PCT had not committed to the site yet, but should they not require the building the alternative application for offices will go ahead.

“With the building of Cavendish Quarter, the developer will be putting £15 million into Dudley.”

Despite an objection from nearby Dudley Motor Company to the proposals, the committee unanimously voted in favour of both applications, subject to a 106 agreement.

Councillor Colin Wilson said: “This is an eyesore, an embarrassing building on our landscape. I do like the idea of a medical centre and all the things associated with it.”

Councillor Geoffrey Southall added: ”This is a contemporary design, but I wanted to know how that would fit in with the historic market town.

The current building is an absolute eyesore, but I think what is proposed is very laudable. I will certainly give it my backing.”