'We have won a huge battle to protect Dudley's green space, but the war continues': Warning as 15-year plan backed
A senior Dudley councillor says the authority has 'won a huge battle' to stop its green spaces from being developed for housing - but warned a new threat could be around the corner.
The council's proposal for a 'brownfield only' planning policy has been approved in principle by a planning inspector, but cabinet member for economy and infrastructure Councillor Simon Phipps warned that government plans to change planning laws could still effectively overturn the decision.
Sign up to our free newsletter today
The council is required by law to draw up a long-term plan setting out its land use policy for the next 15 years, with a requirement to meet future demand for housing.
Last year, council leader Councillor Patrick Harley submitted the council's plan, outlining how 10,500 new homes could be built in the borough by 204, using only brownfield land.
The council has now received a letter approving the plan in principle, subject to a few minor amendments. It also backed the council's opposition to the development of Corbett Meadow in Stourbridge for housing, agreeing that it should be protected as a green space.
Corbett Meadow was donated to the people of Stourbridge by philanthropist John Corbett who was born near the site.
Councillor Phipps said he welcomed the decision, but warned that the matter was far from resolved, as the council would be forced to submit a revised document when its planning reforms come into effect, which aim to make it easier to develop sites deemed to be 'grey belt'.
“This result is a vindication of everything this administration has done to protect our green belt over the last few year," he said.
“I know this will delight residents from across the borough who are fortunate enough to enjoy the beautiful countryside we have on our doorstep. I am sure the ruling on Corbett Meadow will be also welcomed by the hundreds of campaigners who have battled to keep it green.
"We are however guarded as the Government continues to try to water down protections for the countryside at every opportunity they get, especially as they will force us to prepare an updated plan under a new system designed to stop councils preserving green belt sites.
"Whilst we have won a huge battle in this fight, the war will continue to protect our countryside."
During in inquiry to consider the plan last year, the council was accused by building companies of failing to provide enough land to meet housing needs, and taking an 'insular' approach without sufficiently co-operating with neighbouring authorities.
However, planning inspector, Louise Nurser rejected these claims, and in a letter to the authority she 'concurs' with the council’s position that there should be no review of green belt boundaries.
Miss Nurser said she was satisfied the council had met its duty to co-operate with neighbouring authorities and that the plan was legally compliant.
A consultation will now be held on the final amendments that Miss Nurser has proposed.
“The upcoming consultation on modifications will be the last hurdle before we can fully approve this plan,,” said Councillor Phipps
