Kingshurst Parade plan progresses but no start date fixed

NO date has yet been set for the start of work to replace the ageing Kingshurst Parade.
Last week senior councillors approved the planning brief, which was published in draft form earlier this year and sets out a vision for the multi-million pound project.
But when pressed on the latest timetable, council officers would not be drawn on when the redevelopment would actually get underway.
Instead they said that further details would be included in another report, which would be presented to the cabinet later in the year.
Coun James Burn, leader of the Green Party group, had asked what the next steps were, touching upon some of the frustrations over previous delays.
"As you all appreciate the community is quite keen to see this happen," he said.
Residents have voiced concerns about the increasingly run-down appearance of the shopping precinct, with empty units and concerns that the area is attracting anti-social behaviour.
Perry Wardle, assistant director for growth and development, said that further details would be included in the next update, alongside a business case and the latest news on funding.
It is likely that the follow-up report, due before Christmas, would also pave the way for the formal planning application.
Coun Ian Courts, leader of the Conservative-run council, had admitted this type of scheme took "a long, long time."
He said that there were complex issues particularly around ownership; while the local authority owns much of the Parade there are parts which it doesn't.
"The design has been difficult and the negotiation as to things like the units ... there's a lot there to do."
One major step forward which will be taking place within the next few weeks is a move to bring part of the old youth centre back into use.
The building, on Marston Drive, was a previous victim of cutbacks but now a section of the ground floor will be transformed into a temporary community space.
The 12-month pilot is designed to gauge demand for the sort of venue which could be incorporated into the wider redevelopment.
Coun Alison Rolf, cabinet member for stronger and safer communities, said: "Alongside the physical bricks and mortar, a key objective of this scheme is to support people to be engaged and involved in their local community.
"We know from discussions with community leaders that the current community facilities are well used. [The pilot] will help us gain a clearer understanding of what is required."