Public funding of £29m has been agreed to prepare the site for rebuilding of the western end of Telford town centre to prepare the way for mixed use development.
Telford & Wrekin Council is putting £15.5m toward the scheme and the Homes & Communities Agency £9.5m for site preparation and plot creation, together with utilities work.
The partnership of the two bodies with the Southwater Event Group aims to regenerate the area between the shopping centre and the International Centre.The plans include offices, two hotels, 330 homes, catering and a leisure centre.
“Regenerating this area is something that has been talked about for many years, to the point where some doubted it would ever happen,” said Council leader Andrew Eade.
“Now, thanks to the partnership we have together built, it is.”
Enabling works have now begun and contractors are clearing trees to make way for earth works to start before Christmas.
The initial phase is expected to include public spaces and a new learning and media centre.
