Eyesore Website To Become Student Accommodation

10 February 2026
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Christian BarnettLocal Democracy Reporter, Wolverhampton


New trainee accommodation and shops will be developed as part of an attempt to breathe brand-new life into an 100-year-old city centre structure.


A planning application to convert the building at 2-5 Princess Street, Wolverhampton, into 22 trainee flats and new retail systems has actually been authorized by City of Wolverhampton Council.


The local authority stated the "substantial investment" would bring tasks along with stores and accommodation to an uninhabited structure.


Plans submitted by PH8 Investments reveal the previous ground floor shop, which has been empty for a years, would be converted into new retail units.


The "underused" upper floorings would be turned into trainee accommodation and the structure's would also be converted into a fitness center, sauna and steam bath for students.


A report from the council detailing the decision stated: "The proposals would create substantial investment, consisting of great quality trainee lodging and re-using existing commercial area at this crucial place. This is likely to develop work opportunities here.


"There are a number of possible drinking facilities nearby, nevertheless, there are a variety of existing property uses currently in this vicinity and for that reason, it is not likely that presenting trainee accommodation here would be harmful to the night-time economy or the viability of the centre."


The majority of the near-100-year-old Art Deco structure, nestled in between bookies Betfred and Paddy Power, has actually been empty because 2015 when furniture specialist E Marsh relocated.


They blamed long-running roadworks to pedestrianise Princess Street, claiming it had actually pushed the service "previous breaking point."


The previous upholsterers, which has actually been empty for several years and has ended up being an increasing eyesore, would be converted into brand-new retail systems with the preparation application stating the area could be utilized for a cafe or offices.


A move to open a restaurant in the empty structure was approved by the council in 2018 however the work was never ever carried out.


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