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 effort to revive an 100-year-old city centre structure.


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


The regional authority said the "considerable financial investment" would bring tasks along with stores and lodging to an .


Plans sent by PH8 Investments show the former ground floor store, which has been empty for a decade, would be transformed into brand-new retail units.


The "underused" upper floorings would be developed into trainee lodging and the structure's basement would also be converted into a gym, sauna and steam bath for students.


A report from the council describing the decision stated: "The proposals would create substantial investment, including excellent quality trainee lodging and re-using existing industrial space at this crucial location. This is likely to produce job opportunity here.


"There are a number of potential drinking establishments close by, nevertheless, there are a variety of existing property uses currently in this vicinity and therefore, it is not likely that introducing trainee accommodation here would be harmful to the night-time economy or the practicality of the centre."


Most of the near-100-year-old Art Deco structure, nestled between bookies Betfred and Paddy Power, has actually been empty given that 2015 when furnishings expert E Marsh relocated.


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


The previous upholsterers, which has been empty for several years and has become an increasing eyesore, would be converted into new retail systems with the planning application saying the space might be utilized for a coffee shop or workplaces.


A relocate to open a restaurant in the empty structure was authorized by the council in 2018 but the work was never ever brought out.


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