A local MP has joined forces with more than a hundred residents to oppose a significant home extension in a Black Country suburb, branding the proposed development as 'out of character'.
Political and Public Opposition Mounts
Wendy Morton, the Conservative MP for Aldridge-Brownhills, has formally criticised plans for a property on Inglewood Grove in Streetly. In her intervention, she described the proposals as both 'out of character' for the area and 'inaccurate'.
Her stance is strongly supported by the local community, with 131 residents submitting formal objections during the public consultation period. The application, submitted by Waqaar Ajmal, seeks permission for a two-storey side extension, a first-floor side extension, and the conversion of the existing garage into an additional living room.
Councillor Calls in Controversial Plans
Despite the wave of objections, Walsall Council's planning officers have recommended the plans for approval. However, the final decision has been taken out of their hands after the application was 'called in' by Streetly ward councillor, Keir Pedley.
This means the fate of the extension will be determined by the council's planning committee at a meeting scheduled for 5.30pm on Thursday, January 15, at Walsall Council House. Councillor Pedley has listed several grounds for his objection, including:
- The proposed appearance and design.
- Concerns over inadequate parking provision.
- Ambiguity surrounding the future use of the extended property.
A specific concern raised by objectors is the potential for the property to be converted into a House in Multiple Occupation (HMO). In response, the council has clarified that such a change of use would require a separate, full planning application in the future, offering no guarantee of permission.
Decision Day Looms for Streetly Property
The scene is now set for a decisive committee meeting where councillors will weigh the professional recommendation of approval against the significant public and political opposition. The objections centre on the scale of the development and its perceived impact on the local street scene.
With the MP, a local councillor, and a substantial number of residents united in their disapproval, the planning committee faces a challenging verdict on this contentious planning application in the heart of Streetly.
