White Housing Group, one of the largest social landlords in the UK, has set up an innovative partnership with the Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust. Together, they’re paving the way for how to use surplus NHS land to create affordable housing. Placemaking this way would most directly support government plans to return under-used public estate into community use, subject to appropriate planning agreements. The first example we’re focusing on is the recently closed Bloxwich Hospital, in Walsall. It’s been sitting empty ever since services moved to a new facility.
The partnership is a strategic response to the urgent demand for more affordable housing across the area. By transforming these former hospital sites into much-needed affordable housing, the partners hope to not only alleviate housing needs but invest in community health. The initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing the quality of life for residents across the four boroughs of the Black Country.
Marsha Foster, chief exec at Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust echoed the significance of this move. As she concluded, turning excess land into new, well-designed, affordable homes for individuals can have a big impact on community recovery and support independent living.
“Housing and health are inseparable. By turning our surplus sites into quality, affordable homes, we can help people recover faster, live independently and enjoy better long-term health.” – Marsha Foster
Back in May, the Black Country Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust put out a statement. To put an end to media speculation around plans for the Bloxwich Hospital site, they announced their firm commitment to use the site to benefit the community. And this project meets urgent housing needs in the process. In addition, it advances health by designing connected communities that encourage active living and help achieve more holistic health goals.
A joint metropolitan board will direct the program, coordinating the most efficient strategies for multi-county execution across the rapidly-growing metropolitan region. This ambitious plan is the biggest step towards long term health and prosperity for the Black Country. It certainly demonstrates the importance of bridging housing and health.
