Walsall homes plan rethink after 800 objections

Controversial plans for hundreds of new homes on green belt land in Walsall have been scrapped after more than 800 objections.

Housing was earmarked on green belt land known as The Lea as part of a multi-million pound scheme for 700 new homes in the Goscote area. Around 240 properties were lined up for that site under the proposals.

The scheme, put forward by Walsall Council and Walsall Housing Group, which included a land swap with the former Goscote estate went before the planning committee earlier this year. But it was deferred by councillors for further investigation.

A petition with 722 signatures and a further 94 letters were collected in opposition to the plans as residents showed the strength of feeling against the application.

It has now emerged that the proposals have been reconsidered and a new scheme, without incorporating The Lea, is being developed. Campaigners today welcomed the announcement.

Ken Wall, who has lived in nearby Hardy Road for more than 40 years was heavily involved in the campaign.

The 68 year-old said: "I am ecstatic. It is green belt on our doorstep and has always been enjoyed by people who live round it."

Councillor Pete Smith, said: "I am absolutely over the moon, this demonstrates when people stick together for a common cause, with something that was a genuine community concern, they can win."

Council and housing bosses say they are committed to transforming the Goscote area where there is acres of cleared sites ready for development. Regeneration chief councillor Adrian Andrew, said all "possible opportunties" had been investigated to create an environment "in which residents want to live."

By Craig Hughes