9:32am Friday 14th November 2008
Halesowen's new multi-million pound bus station will be completed a week earlier than scheduled but still not in time for the opening of the town's new Asda store.
Centro has confirmed the £3.5m state-of-the-art station will be open on Sunday December 14 - five days earlier than planned - but Asda will open next Monday (November 24).
The news means after 18 months the completion of the town's £30m regeneration is finally in sight.
The 24-hour Asda will be opened with a launch party at 10am.
The bus station will feature waiting areas with electronic doors that open automatically when buses arrive.
There will be electronic displays of timetables and CCTV and help points to ensure travellers security.
Councillor Angus Adams, cabinet member for transportation at Dudley Council said: “It is fantastic news for residents, businesses and visitors in Halesowen that the end of the town centre’s regeneration is in sight and will not only be completed as promised before Christmas, but earlier than we anticipated."
Adrian Oliver, director of Vale Retail which owns the Cornbow, said: “The town has got its supermarket back and we have a fantastic new car park with greatly improved security and a state of the art bus station.
“Our thanks go out to all of you in Halesowen who have stayed with us throughout the development works.
"We hope you enjoy what we're sure you'll agree is the best Christmas present for the town.”
Some shops in the Cornbow will now be opening on Sundays from 11am till 5pm.
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