A FORMER Dudley eyesore site could become a thriving new community under ambitious plans outlined by the region’s mayor.

Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, has revealed plans to create new communities along the region’s growing transport network.

Dudley’s former Cavendish House site is among sites that could benefit from the idea – when the Metro is up and running.

Mr Street said, if re-elected, he will launch a ‘transport focused’ housing policy which would identify and reclaim disused parcels of land next to train stations, Metro and bus stops.

He made the policy pledge while visiting Moda Living in Birmingham, who are developing New Garden Square - a 2,000-home community which will be served by the extension of the Metro to Five Ways.

Mr Street, whose 2040 Transport Plan is investing billions in new Metro, rail and rapid bus connections, said: “Our transport network is growing all the time, and it makes sense to build some of the new homes we need along the routes, on disused parcels of land.

“It’s an idea that has worked in London, on the Elizabeth Line, and in places like Hong Kong, where quality homes and thriving communities have been built near new lines, giving people transport links right on their doorstep, connecting them to jobs, leisure, and the wider region.

“In the future, housing developments like these could even help fund the building of the transport links in the first place – it’s a very exciting idea.

“And it’s another way of ensuring development is on disused land, helping protect the green belt, while placing homes in more urban areas, supporting the High Street and local businesses.”

He added: “Moda Living are showing just how this approach can be made to work, with 400 homes already under construction, and new shops, offices, cafes and restaurants, all on the Metro line.”

Mr Street believes this could be replicated in Dudley.

He said: “Portersfield in Dudley is the development on the former Cavendish House site, which will be brought to life by the new Metro extension which will open later this year.

“The tram connection will provide the impetus for new investment in housing and regeneration of this site and the wider town centre.”