Plan for Sandwell's future is given go-ahead
Regeneration plans which set out how Sandwell will look within a decade have been approved by Government, despite businesses' claims they risked the loss of dozens of jobs.
Ervin Amasteel, which makes metallic abrasives for the shot blasting industry, and Clayton Holdings Ltd, which makes fluid bed furnaces for the aerospace industry, objected to Sandwell Council's plans when they were first revealed. They feared the designs, which set out where homes and employment land would be by 2021, jeopardised their businesses.
They employ at total of 107 workers between them.
But, the Planning Inspectorate has ruled the designs, titled the Sandwell Site Allocation and Delivery Plan and the West Bromwich Area Action Plan, are sound.
As a result the council's ruling cabinet is expected to officially adopt the plans at a meeting on Wednesday.
Steve Mills, boss of Ervin Amasteel, which employs 83, in George Henry Road, Tipton, said: "I'm happy the council have met our concerns. We held meetings together and I was assured they did not wish any detriment to the business."
Councillor Derek Rowley, the borough's jobs chief, said: "This is an important milestone. We always try to accomodate businesses to encourage growth and creating new jobs."
Earlier this year, Mr Mills said the emphasis on different kinds of business jeopardised the future viability of the firm.
Clayton Holdings Ltd meanwhile told the authority its plans to build homes near its Somerton Road site in Oldbury, were unworkable as it could not afford to uproot its operations, which could risk 24 job losses.
Planning inspector Paul Crysell, however, felt the council had responded to businesses' concerns.
