A major housing development has been proposed for land currently designated as green belt in Walsall, with the developer arguing the site actually qualifies as 'grey belt' under national planning policy.
The Proposed Development
Developer St Philips has submitted outline plans to build up to 200 homes on an 8.74 hectare site off Chester Road in Streetly, adjacent to Planters Pacific Garden Centre. The proposal represents one of several plots put forward by Walsall Council to prospective developers to address housing needs in the Midlands area.
If approved, the project would involve demolishing existing structures and creating a new housing estate with significant community benefits. The plans commit to 40% affordable housing alongside play areas and a community orchard, aiming to create a comprehensive new neighbourhood rather than just housing units.
The Grey Belt Argument
Planning agent Savills is making a crucial argument that the agricultural fields comprising the development site meet the criteria for what national planning policy defines as 'grey belt'. This classification applies to green belt land that either contains previously developed land, fails to strongly contribute to preventing urban sprawl, or where policies would otherwise restrict development.
The grey belt designation has become increasingly significant in planning debates as councils seek to balance housing delivery with environmental protection. In this case, the developer contends that the land's characteristics and location make it suitable for development despite its current green belt status.
Transport and Access Plans
Access to the proposed development would be directly from Chester Road, with transport improvements including a ghost island to facilitate vehicles turning right into the site. The comprehensive plans also include creating public open space alongside the promised play areas and community orchard.
The submission of outline plans represents the first step in what will likely be a closely watched planning process, testing both local housing needs and green belt protection policies in the Walsall area.
