MAJOR redevelopment of a run-down former industrial part of Stourbridge is a step closer - with developers set to host an exhibition detailing their ambitious scheme next week.

Revelan Developments Ltd are in the process of preparing a planning application to build a whopping 255 new homes on derelict land, off Old Wharf Road, which sits between the Stourbridge Canal and Stourbridge football and cricket clubs.

The redevelopment scheme would see a mix of new family and affordable homes, including properties for the elderly, built on the massive 6.5-acre industrial site to the north of the town centre - the majority of which has lain empty for many years.

A three-storey, canal-side apartment block features in the plan, along with family houses with prominent open frontages and potentially a new care home - plus new areas of public open and green space, improved access to the canal towpath and a new pedestrian link from the existing canal bridge.

The developers say the majority of the site has now been cleared of all buildings and the scheme will provide "much-needed new family and affordable homes" and the development will "bring a vacant and unattractive site back into productive use".

But before submitting a planning application for the scheme they are seeking views of residents in the area and have organised a drop-in consultation event which will be held at Lion Health centre, in Lowndes Road, on Tuesday February 28 from 12.30pm to 4pm.

A spokesman for Harris Lamb property consultancy, which is hosting the event, said: "There will be a series of display boards at the event providing details of the proposals. The event will also attended by representatives of Revelan Developments and residents will have the opportunity to discuss the proposals with them and leave feedback."

Andrew Dodson, of Revelan Developments, said: "We've been in discussion with Dudley Council for the last 12 months about this scheme and we've entered into a collaboration with two other landowners to bring the site forward.

"Hopefully it will generate an acceptable use to meet Dudley's housing requirements, regenerate the area and improve the northern end of Stourbridge."

He said a planning application will likely be submitted to the council by Easter - subject to any major issues arising as a result of the consultation.

Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, Dudley's cabinet member for regeneration, said of the scheme: "We definitely welcome any opportunity for housing because of the shortage of homes - especially any development which brings with it jobs and economic benefits for the area."