SPARK builds momentum on £110 million scheme

A “flagship” £110 million regeneration project has entered a new phase.

The first buildings at SPARK, in Walsall, have reached steel completion. 

Delivered by Origin – a joint venture between HBD and Feldberg Capital – the 44-acre scheme will offer 620,000sq ft of industrial space, with units ranging from 18,000sq ft to 250,000sq ft, with bosses saying it could create up to 1000 jobs.

Contractor Bowmer + Kirkland has completed the steelwork on the first two buildings, marking an “exciting milestone” in transforming the former Copper Works site. 

Vivienne Clements, executive director at HBD, said: “Seeing the steels complete is an exciting milestone for SPARK as the development begins to take shape. 

“It’s an important scheme not just for the local community, but for the wider region. 

“Given this excellent progress, the first two units are on track to be completed in autumn and ready for occupation before the end of the year.”

Jamie Acheson, managing director of Feldberg Capital, added: “Following on from the launch of Origin in December 2024, the speed of progress at SPARK demonstrates the collaboration and success of our joint venture. 

“SPARK is a flagship scheme in a very under-supplied micro-location and will bring critical employment and social benefits to the surrounding community.”

Planning has already been submitted for a second phase, due to start in early 2026, which will deliver a further three units.

The site, located just off the M6, is backed by Walsall Council, Homes England, the Black Country LEP and West Midlands Combined Authority.

Councillor Adrian Andrew, acting leader of Walsall Council, added: “It’s fantastic to see the steels complete at SPARK as it reaches another milestone. 

“It's just an incredible feeling to see something I’ve been involved with for such a long time coming together and the buildings starting to come out of the ground.”

The agents for SPARK are Cushman and Wakefield and Box4 Real Estate.

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