Controversial plans to build 600 homes on greenbelt land in Walsall have been formally submitted, putting protected open space at risk and drawing fierce criticism from local residents and campaigners.
Proposal Details
The application, submitted to Walsall Council by developer Richborough Estates, seeks outline planning permission for a residential development on land off Lichfield Road, in the Stonnall area. The site, currently agricultural fields, forms part of the West Midlands Green Belt.
According to the planning documents, the development would include a mix of two-, three-, four-, and five-bedroom homes, with 30% designated as affordable housing. The proposal also includes open space, a new access road, and pedestrian and cycle links.
Local Opposition
The plans have been met with strong opposition from the Stonnall and District Residents Association, which argues that the development would erase a vital green buffer between villages and harm the character of the area. Spokesperson Jane Smith said, “This is a direct assault on our greenbelt. We are not against housing, but it must be on brownfield sites, not on land that protects our countryside and prevents urban sprawl.”
A petition against the development has gathered over 1,500 signatures, with residents citing concerns about increased traffic, pressure on local infrastructure, and loss of wildlife habitat.
Council and Policy Context
Walsall Council is currently reviewing its local plan, which sets out housing targets and identifies land for development. The council has acknowledged the need for new homes but has previously stated that greenbelt release should be a last resort. However, the government’s housing delivery targets and a shortfall in brownfield land have put pressure on councils to consider greenbelt sites.
The application will be determined by Walsall Council’s planning committee, with a decision expected later this year. If approved, it could set a precedent for further greenbelt development in the area.
Developer’s Justification
Richborough Estates has argued that the site is suitable for development, noting that it is adjacent to the built-up area of Stonnall and that the scheme would deliver much-needed housing, including affordable homes. A spokesperson for the developer said, “We have worked closely with the council and local stakeholders to create a high-quality development that respects the landscape and provides community benefits.”
The developer also points to a recent government consultation on planning reform, which proposed making it easier to build on greenbelt land in certain circumstances.
Environmental Concerns
Environmental groups have raised alarms about the loss of greenbelt, which they say is essential for combating climate change, providing recreational space, and supporting biodiversity. The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) West Midlands has called on the council to reject the application, stating that the greenbelt is “under unprecedented threat” across the region.
CPRE West Midlands director, Mark Green, said: “Building on greenbelt is a short-sighted solution to the housing crisis. We need to prioritize brownfield sites and regenerate existing urban areas before concreting over our countryside.”
The site is also home to protected species, including great crested newts and bats, according to ecological surveys submitted with the application. The developer has proposed mitigation measures, including habitat creation and translocation.
Next Steps
The application (reference 24/1234) is available for public comment on Walsall Council’s planning portal until 31 March 2024. The council will then consider the application, with a site visit and committee hearing expected in the summer.
Local councillors have pledged to listen to residents’ concerns. Councillor Sarah Jones (Labour, Stonnall) said, “I will be opposing this application unless there are significant changes that address the impact on our community and environment. We need homes, but not at any cost.”
