Support

Representation ID: 11051

Received: 09/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Stephen Walder

I am pleased, following a review of the Green Belt around Halesowen, that 'The Plan' is supporting the protection of special Green Belt areas around Coombeswood, Lapal, Illey, Grange Hill, Tack Farm, Hayley Green, Lutley, Foxcote Farm, etc., and are rejecting the 'Call for Sites' proposals that would severely damage these areas and adversely impact upon neighbouring special sites in Worcestershire, including ancient Uffmoor Wood; the Clent Hills; and the Hagley Estate, including, of course, the prominent Iron Age Fort on Wychbury Hill.

This special countryside, which should receive appropriate recognition for its contribution to the informal recreational needs of a wide community, including, of course, those of the individual Black Country Authorities, but also the needs of Birmingham; North Worcestershire and beyond.

In the 1980s and subsequent decades, Dudley Council, through it's Countryside Service followed a policy, known as the 'Dudley Countryside Management Plan', to promote and improve this countryside for landscape; biodiversity; historic and informal recreational values.

The benefits of that policy are still palpable today and were particularly valuable to the mental and physical wellbeing of many users who benefitted from this countryside during the Covid-19 restrictions.
Walk leaflets promote this countryside and are very popular.
The balance, which is very sensitive and depends upon the whole, as much as the component areas, is delicate and would severely damaged by urban developments, including the new roads and infrastructure.
I reiterate my support.