Developers have submitted fresh proposals to transform a derelict mission hall in the Black Country into supported living accommodation for vulnerable adults.
Revitalizing John Owen House
Edgeview Homes seeks approval from Sandwell Council to repurpose John Owen House, located at the corner of Grange Road and Waterfall Lane in Old Hill, Cradley Heath. The project aims to create six supported living units offering round-the-clock residential care for individuals aged 18 to 65 facing learning disabilities, mental health challenges, autism spectrum disorders, or complex needs.
Addressing Long-Term Neglect
The planning application highlights the building’s neglected condition and poor state of maintenance, positioning the redevelopment as a key step to revive the eyesore structure and provide essential community housing.
Local Development Context
This initiative follows Sandwell Council’s approval last year for converting the former Old Furnace pub across Grange Road into flats. The pub, shuttered since 2010, saw multiple prior proposals rejected or unbuilt, including plans for offices, a shop, new homes after demolition, and a hand car wash on its fenced-off car park. Council officials deemed several ideas incompatible with the surroundings or poorly designed.
