FA Raises Concerns Over Retirement Home Plans in Kingswinford, Local Reaction

Kingswinford: So, there was this plan to build retirement flats in Kingswinford. But it didn’t go through. Dudley Council said no, mainly because of objections from football groups. They were worried about losing local sports facilities.

The site was supposed to replace an old youth center with 49 new apartments. But it also had play areas, including a basketball court. Sport England and the Birmingham FA were concerned about how this would affect local teams, especially Kingswinford Knights FC. They pointed out that parents often park nearby and use the court when it’s busy.

The developers, Churchill Living Ltd, argued that their new multi-use games area would be a great upgrade. But planners felt there weren’t enough parking spaces for the new building. Plus, the design of the four-story building didn’t sit well with them. They thought it was too big and didn’t fit the neighborhood vibe.

In the end, Dudley planners decided the project would stand out too much and not match the area’s character. So, the retirement home plan is off the table for now.