WALSALL, Thursday 12th November 2026 – Walsall Community Association (WCA) has appointed retired Royal Navy officer Commander Robert Jaffier as project manager for the transformation of its building at 36 Wolverhampton Road into the Black Country Commonwealth House.
His responsibilities include overseeing the regeneration of the Wolverhampton Road site and engagement with the Armed Forces. The next project milestone is to secure local listing by January 2027.
The appointment builds on volunteer restoration efforts in 2025. On 5th April, local residents and military personnel helped clear the building. On 3rd May, Commonwealth military personnel joined residents to clear much of the interior, preparing it for further restoration.
Since May 2025, WCA has worked with partners including Architectural Heritage Fund (AHF), Wolverhampton University and Walsall Council to advance the restoration. The project is now moving towards its delivery phase.
The project aims to create a permanent home for the connection between military service and community life. Planned work includes developing designs to Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA) Stage 3, preparing a Heritage Statement and a Conservation and Impact Assessment, and carrying out further community consultation on the Commonwealth House.
Yvonne Vassell, Chair of Walsall Community Association, said of the appointment: “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Robert to the team delivering the Black Country Commonwealth House project. As the project enters its next phase, Robert will oversee its development and operational delivery. He brings a distinguished record of leadership, strategic execution, and service from the Royal Navy. His expertise will be instrumental in driving the success of this vital initiative and delivering lasting impact for Commonwealth members, veterans, and their families.”
Commander Robert Jaffier said of the appointment: ” I am delighted and privileged to join Walsall Community Association as Project Manager for the delivery of Black Country Commonwealth House. This exciting and much-needed project will breathe new life into a building rich in character and architectural heritage, celebrating Walsall’s history while creating a vibrant hub for the future. Through its mixed-use programme, the project will provide essential services and support for members of the Commonwealth, veterans, and their families in Walsall. Its strategic location and excellent transport links will also enable the facility to serve communities across the wider West Midlands, creating opportunities for connection, collaboration, and inclusion.”
