Old M&S building to be turned into 70 flats and new retail units
A scheme to turn an existing Wolverhampton city centre building into more than 70 modern apartments and improved retail units has been given the green light by planners.
This decision, made on January 5, paves the way for the transformation of the former Marks & Spencer store on Dudley Street into modern apartments and retail units.
A joint venture between Nottingham-based ALB Group and Birmingham-based Prosperity Group will convert the landmark building.
It will feature 71 contemporary apartments on the upper floors and three high-quality retail units on the ground floor, sized between 1,200 and 7,000 square feet, designed to attract both independent and national retailers.
The iconic M&S store, which opened in 1929 and closed in September 2025, has stood vacant until now.
The newly approved scheme aims to boost footfall, create jobs and support the ongoing revival of Wolverhampton’s retail core.
Joe Billingham, founder and CEO at Prosperity Group, said: “The building on Dudley Street is a lovely heritage landmark that will convert well into spacious apartments.
“The local authority has been so supportive in getting the plans for this project to fruition quickly, with the objective of meeting residential demand in the area.
“The regeneration plan we submitted is not only right for the building and the area, but will also be instrumental in job creation.”
‘Reinvigorating a landmark building’
Richard Parker, Mayor of the West Midlands, added: “This is exactly the kind of regeneration Wolverhampton, and our local high streets, need.
“It reinvigorates a landmark building while meeting a real housing gap and putting more people back into the heart of the city.
“More homes in the town centre means more footfall for local businesses, more life on the high street and a stronger city centre economy.
“I’m impressed by these plans and look forward to seeing the project develop. This is how we renew our town centres in a way that works for local people.”
Strong interest has already emerged from young professionals for the apartments and from retailers for the commercial space. Work is set to begin soon.
