A HOUSING group is looking to finally demolish a derelict Kidderminster school and redevelop it to provide nearly 60 new homes in the town.

The Community Housing Group (CHG) has purchased the former Sion Hill Middle School, which has lay empty for more than 10 years, and announced up to 59 houses could be built in its place.

It is hoped a planning application will be submitted later in the year to push the scheme forward.

The school hasn’t been in use since 2007 and become the target of arson, anti-social behaviour with repeated break-ins and vandalism.

This prompted serious concerns from local residents and councillors who called for urgent action to be taken to stop continued problems at the site.

Community Housing Group has now obtained a licence from Wyre Forest District Council which will enable them to finally demolish it, once an ecology licence has been secured.

Bosses said the licence will allow for a quick demolition to take place with an ecologist present to ensure that any protected species are identified and preserved during the process.

Ray Brookes, Group Chief Executive for The Community Housing Group said: “It is an exciting opportunity and will provide up to 59 new homes for the area.

“We know that residents are keen to see the site developed and planning applications will be submitted later this year once the consultation with them has been completed.”