Work is set commence this week on the preliminary stages of the remediation of former IMI James Bridge copper works - kick starting the regeneration of Walsall's Darlaston area.

Regional development agency Advantage West Midlands (AWM) has awarded Morrisons Construction (part of the Galliford Try group) the £0.5 million pilot study. Other partners in the project include Walsall Regeneration Company and PxP West Midlands.

The pilot study will provide further data about the site and help to direct which techniques will be most effective when remediating the site's full 12 acres - which has more than 90 disused mine shafts, other workings and contamination.

It is expected to take between four and six months, and following its successful completion; a period of reappraisal of the Works will be carried out to prepare the site for the development of a proposed business park. 

 Stuart Kirkwood, Director of Development at Advantage West Midlands, said: "As the West Midlands' regional development agency, we are uniquely placed to develop and deliver regional solutions to regional issues, and are dedicated to ensuring that the region's prime locations are prepared for future development.

"This joint venture is a great example of how effective partnerships between public and private sector are working together to acquire, assemble and prepare for the remediation of land which would otherwise remain derelict."

Gary Young, Managing Director of Hinkley - based Morrison Construction Civil Engineering, said: "We're delighted to have been awarded this contract and hope that it marks the start of a long and mutually rewarding relationship with AWM,"

Nick Bird, Major Projects Director for Walsall Regeneration Company, said:  "Sitting both sides of the M6, this site represents one of the Midlands' prime regeneration opportunities with the potential to attract local, national and international companies.

"The vision is for a high quality environment geared to meeting 21st century business needs, not only encouraging new businesses to the area but also benefitting existing ones and the community at large."

Mark Stapleton, Managing Director at PxP West Midlands said: "We are pleased to be partnering Advantage West Midlands on this project, and look forward to developing out this important regeneration site."

The James Bridge site, next to the M6 at Darlaston, was the last copper refinery in the UK and closed nearly 10 years ago. It now forms part of the Darlaston Strategic Development Area.