Walsall residents warned to have their say 'before it's too late' as swathes of green belt under threat
A local campaign group has warned residents to have their say over thousands of new homes on Walsall’s green belt ‘before it’s too late’.
The Beacon Action Group has criticised Walsall Council for the lack of communication around the draft local plan – a document offering up swathes of green belt land for prospective developers.
A consultation period launched last month, offering residents the chance to have their say on the matter.
But chairman Bob Withers has called on the council to extend the current deadline of December 19, claiming many residents are unaware of the proposals.
He said: “We are concerned about the lack of public engagement that invites comments on the Walsall Borough Local Plan.
“This is a very important document which together, with input from the local community, will form the basis of Walsall’s development plans for future years.
“It is therefore very important to have our say now before it is too late.
“This valuable information is detailed in a leaflet prepared by the council, but it has not been distributed by post to all Walsall residents.
“Our members are very concerned to learn that many residents have not received any information about it.
“This lack of vital communication about the future of Walsall prevents some residents from sharing their important views on the local plan.
“We acknowledge information has been posted on social media and drop-in sessions have been arranged.
“But for many residents who do not use the internet, they may be completely unaware of the consultation process, drop-ins and timescales.”
Members of the Beacon Action Group have taken it upon themselves to distribute leaflets across Pheasey Park Farm.
Walsall Council said it has followed the statutory requirement of a six-week consultation period, and that writing to every household would not be cost effective.
A spokesperson said: “We want as many residents as possible to have their say on the draft plan.
“We have ensured that support and printed materials for the local plan consultation are available for residents that need it.
“Writing to every household would not be cost effective, so paper copies of the draft local plan and questionnaires are available in all libraries, with summary leaflets distributed to over 150 venues.
“The council has also hosted drop-in events at 10 venues, allowing residents to speak directly with officers. The commonplace site has received thousands of visitors and over 1000 responses already.
“Paper copies of all documents are available on request by email or over the phone, and we will provide help and alternative formats to anyone who needs additional support. The second phase of consultation on the local plan is due to take place in Summer 2026.”
To view and comment on the draft local plan, visit the council’s commonplace website here: https://walsallboroughlocalplan.commonplace.is/
