New shops and a gym are being lined up in a massive transformation of a dilapidated Walsall shopping centre.

Ravenscourt precinct has lie derelict for a number of years, proving to be an eyesore for local residents and visitors to Brownhills High Street.

But that could be all set to change after planning permission was sought for a massive regeneration of the site.

It could see main buildings demolished to make way for a number of retail units as well as an upstairs gym.

The documentation from Lightquote Limited reads: “We have been appointed by Marson Properties to develop a scheme replacing the derelict buildings with a new two storey building, with a facade closer to the High Street and levelling the rest of the site to provide a deliveries yard to the new units, some car parking and landscaping.

How Ravenscourt would look

“The new building is proposed to be located in the centre of the site in place of part of the demolished single storey retail units and some of the courtyard. It is proposed in a similar scale to the existing rear building, two storeys, but brought forward towards the High Street, reducing the courtyard size, but still providing a visual closure to that area.

“The landscape design will be functional, cost effective and will provide an attractive environment for the new development. Functional aspects of the landscape such as service and disabled access will be designed to be effective and comfortable and safe to use and include the creation of well-designed entrance courtyard and external parking. Ramps, steps and the need for convoluted approaches will be designed out where possible.

“The design will seek to add value to the grounds by considering the incorporation of educational features and artworks. Planting will be designed to provide summer shade and a barrier to wind effect for the open environment.”

The centre has lay derelict for a number of years

The development would include two 6,500sqft A1 units on the ground floor and a gym and storage space for the retail units on the first floor.

And it has been welcomed by Walsall Council.

Councillor Lee Jeavons, deputy leader and portfolio holder for regeneration at Walsall Council, said: “We are pleased that Lightquote Limited has submitted a planning application and is proposing to invest in one of our key district centres.

“Providing the development goes to plan, this would make a fantastic improvement to Brownhills. We aim to work positively with the applicant to move the proposed plans forward in creating jobs and offering further choice for local residents and hopefully attracting new business whilst supporting the existing ones in the area."

Brownhills Councillor Kenneth Ferguson, however, was apprehensive about the plans.

"The plans look impressive but we have had ongoing issues here for so long that you start to become sceptical and wonder what people's intentions are. We have been here before," he said.

"I hope this is serious because it would be good news for the area. It would encourage people to both shop here and live here.

"Until contractors are actually on site, I am not holding my breath."