Meeting hears objections to housing scheme in Staffordshire village

Residents, members of a parish council and the area’s MP are again opposing an application for 46 new homes in Wheaton Aston.

Birmingham-based land promotion business Richborough Commercial, which also has offices in London and Manchester, has submitted a planning application to South Staffordshire Council for a 13.5-acre parcel of land to the southeast of the village.

A community meeting in the village on Tuesday (May 26) heard the houses and associated infrastructure - if approved - would be built on land at Fentonhouse Lane, Wheaton Aston.

The site has previously been promoted for housing development through the council’s local plan.

The meeting, attended by MP for Stone, Great Wyrley and Penkridge Sir Gavin Williamson, heard residents say they are concerned about erosion to the green belt, straining public infrastructure further, affecting the character of the village, traffic, walking access routes and flooding,

An online public consultation in which residents could make their views known has now closed.

Sir Gavin said after the meeting: “It is clear that neither the parish council nor local residents want to see more housing development within the village.

“Wheaton Aston already has had to accept a lot of extra houses being built in the village and as a ‘Tier 3’ village, its infrastructure cannot cope with more dwellings that inevitably leads to an influx of traffic and pressure on local services.

“In the case of Fentonhouse Lane, it is not an appropriate site, it’s not in the correct place and it is putting even greater pressure on infrastructure in the village

“I am unequivocal in my opposition to this development, and will do everything in my power to ensure it is rejected at every available opportunity.”

During consultation, which lasted until February 27, 337 comments were received with just one in favour of the scheme.

it was also opposed by Lapley, Stretton and Wheaton Aston Parish Council which said at the time: “The development sits near Mottey Meadows, a designated site of special scientific interest (SSSI) and special area of conservation (SAC) known for its species-rich hay meadows, including rare flora like snake’s-head fritillary.

It is estimated that the proposed development is approximately 500m from the site.

“Ground nesting birds (sky larks and curlews) reside in the reserve and fields, both are protected species. Fenton House Lane should remain as the village boundary as a protection to this much valued SSSI.”

You can find out more about planning applications and planned roadworks where you live by visiting publicnoticeportal.uk/express-and-star