Phase two complete on multi-million employment hub in Walsall

Phase two of a huge £126million industrial and logistics development is now complete.

The milestone for SPARK Walsall was celebrated with a launch event at the Reservoir Place site on October 14.

The project includes converting the former James Bridge Copper Works into 620,000 sq ft of employment space, creating up to 1,100 jobs.

The land had lain empty for more than two decades after the factory closed in 1999 and was a target for antisocial behaviour.

A deal was struck between HBD, Walsall Council and Homes England to transform the 44-acre site with funding being provided by the partners as well as Black Country LEP and West Midlands Combined Authority.

Phase one, completed in November 2025, included the creation of two warehouses, both of which are now let to Relay Technologies and Eon.

Phase two involved the development of a further three warehouses. Works were completed earlier this month, and one of the warehouses has already been let to a large employer.

Phase three will see the development of a further two warehouses which will be built to the future occupiers’ bespoke requirements. Works are expected to commence on phase three in January 2027.

Simon Raiye, director of Henry Boot Development, said: “We’re in a really strong part of the world for both industrial and logistics occupiers in terms of the strength of demand and the manufacturing history of the region.

“There’s a lot of successful businesses in the area who don’t want to leave. As we are building these units, we’ve seen a lot of pent up demand.

“This site was derelict for 20 years and attracted antisocial behaviour. Now it’s a sign of investment and growth potential in the local area. Also, this will give opportunities for kids growing up in the area who will be the workforce of tomorrow. That’s no minor feat.”

By Rachel Alexander | Local Democracy Reporting Service