AI 'Nimbyism' Service Sparks UK Planning Arms Race
A new AI tool called Objector generates planning objections in minutes, raising fears of an automated 'nimbyism' arms race that could undermine housing development across the UK.
A new AI tool called Objector generates planning objections in minutes, raising fears of an automated 'nimbyism' arms race that could undermine housing development across the UK.
Sandwell Council has approved plans to demolish the former Perry Hill Tavern in Oldbury, ending its use as a focal point for crime and disturbance. New housing is planned for the site. Read the full story.
A public inquiry into 115 homes on Walsall green belt land has started. Developers accuse the council of a 'catastrophic failure' in housing supply. Read the latest.
A century-old former working men's club in Smethwick, which fell into administration, will be transformed into townhouses and flats. Council planners approved the scheme despite parking concerns.
Sandwell Council approves a new 'mini' service station near the M5 in West Bromwich, featuring EV charging points and commercial units, despite planning policy conflicts.
Labour demands apology after £8,000 survey on Cradley parish council, funded as part of a Tory-Lib Dem budget deal, is overwhelmingly rejected by residents. Read the full story.
A government planning inspector has upheld Solihull Council's refusal of a house extension on Widney Road, ruling it would harm the street's character. Read the full details.
Sandwell Council approves plans to convert the historic Corks Social Club into homes, despite highways officers calling the lack of parking 'unacceptable'. Read the full story.
Sandwell Council greenlights a 'mini service station' near the M5 in West Bromwich, featuring rapid EV charging points and four commercial units. Discover the key details of this transport infrastructure project.
Sandwell Council approves a new 'mini service station' with four commercial units and electric vehicle charging points on a brownfield site next to the M5 in West Bromwich.
A 70-year-old grandmother has spent over £125,000 in legal fees battling to save her self-built eco-cabin from council bulldozers. Discover her fight for a sustainable home.
Sandwell Council has refused plans to demolish the empty Crown Inn in Old Hill for a new shop, stating the land is reserved for future housing or employment use. Read the full details.
Lancaster City Council has granted planning permission for design variations to two industrial buildings near the historic Galgate Mill. The changes include extra roller shutter doors and revised landscaping.
Sainsbury's submits a third planning application to build a convenience store on a Sutton Coldfield pub car park, citing new 'grey belt' planning rules. Will it succeed?
A government planning inspector has dismissed an appeal to build a four-bedroom house on a Solihull green space, siding with residents who argued it would spoil their 'lovely crescent'. Read the full ruling.
From a rejected student tower to a new permanent cycle route, get the latest on Birmingham City Council's major planning and development decisions this week.
From a controversial 24/7 casino approval to a rejected 'battery farm' HMO and a UK-first robotic pharmacy. Get the full update on Sandwell Council's major decisions this week.
Solihull Council sees complaints soar to a three-year peak while making crucial decisions on parish mergers, historic building conversions, and the Mell Square redevelopment. Discover the full story.
This week in Walsall: a rooftop food court shuts over safety, tenants face quadrupled energy bills, and a new £50m school's location sparks debate. Get the full local update.
Walsall Council approves a four-year extension for the Highfields landfill site, promising long-term community benefits despite ongoing resident complaints about stench and noise.
Sandwell Council rejects 11-bed HMO in Smethwick High Street amid resident fears it would worsen existing rat infestations and fly-tipping problems. Read the full story.
UK households in council tax band D can get 100% discounts, leading to £0 bills before a 5% rise to £2,394. Learn how to apply for Council Tax Support.
Millions of UK households face a 5% council tax hike in 2026. Discover expert tips on how to legally reduce your bill and save money with discounts and payment plans.
Grenville Snooker Club, with over 100 years of history, is relocating to Vulcan House ahead of the Mell Square redevelopment. Discover how the club is preserving its legacy.
A decision on extending Walsall Wood landfill site for four years is due today. Residents report 'egg-like stench' causing health issues. Read the latest.
Plans submitted to convert a historic 18th century office building in Meriden into four residential homes. The proposal aims to rescue the property from disrepair and restore its original character.
Solihull Council launches investigation into Castle Bromwich home extension after neighbours and councillor raise serious concerns over demolition work. Read the latest.
Walsall Council will decide this week whether to approve plans transforming the former Marks & Spencer into a new Adult Learning Centre for 750 students.
Dudley taxpayers foot an £8,000 bill for a feasibility study, with over 80% of Cradley residents voting against a new parish council. Discover the political fallout.
Dudley Council grants outline permission for 650 homes on the former Ketley Quarry site after resolving road access disputes. Discover the details of this major development.