Outdoor entertainment site plans to be discussed

Plans to open a new outdoor food, drink and entertainment venue in Wolverhampton city centre will be discussed next week.

Under the proposals, vendors would be in converted shipping containers, and the city council has said it waslooking for an operator to build and run a planned venue on its land.

A total of £5.5m has been set aside for the project this year, with the council expecting to generate a return over the course of a proposed 25-year lease.

The authority, whose cabinet will meet on Wednesday to talk about the plans, said it had "wanted to bring a box space to Wolverhampton for a while".

A facility was due to open in Cleveland Street in 2024, but the move was put on hold because of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Artist's impressions were revealed in 2023 and the new venue was expected to have replaced a decaying row of shops in Cleveland Street.

The city's former outdoor market in Peel Street was also earmarked as a potential location, having been demolished in 2017.

But this now forms part of the 12-acre regeneration site that will see 1,070 homes built, between School Street and Darlington Street, alongside space for new shops, bars, restaurants and a revamped square.

Council leader Stephen Simkins said subject to cabinet approval, it was seeking an "experienced operator with a proven track record of running successful box‑style venues and a passion for delivering high‑quality, inclusive, community‑minded spaces".

"This is a chance to create something really special – somewhere that feels authentically 'Wolves', gives people more reasons to spend time in the city centre, and attracts visitors from across the region."

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

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