AN artist's impression of new council flats which could replace a dilapidated row of shops in Colley Gate has been released.

Dudley Council is working on proposals to build a block of eight apartments on land off Colley Lane.

The development, which would cost approximately £1.4 million, would see four eyesore shops, which have stood derelict for decades, flattened.

The council owns one of the properties and is the process of acquiring the remaining three.

A public consultation was held yesterday (Wednesday January 26) at Providence Methodist Church, where local residents found out more about the proposed plans.

If approved, the development would include eight one bedroom apartments, which would be available to rent to people on the council’s waiting list.

Councillor Laura Taylor, cabinet member for housing and community services, said: “We’ve been looking at how we could redevelop this blot on the landscape for a long time and I am really pleased we now have plans on the table that offer the best opportunity to regenerate this area.

“We know local residents are keen to see something happen here and I hope they welcome the proposals we are putting forward for planning.

“This is a major regeneration opportunity to transform this area of Colley Gate and I’m confident we can make this happen.

The council has said it will submit a planning application shortly.