Object

Representation ID: 12704

Received: 06/10/2021

Respondent: Mr & Mrs David Shorters

Number of people: 2

- The former Reedswood Golf Course.

As someone living in the area, near to these sites, we are of the view that the proposals will have a serious impact on our life as these sites significantly reduce harmful levels of air pollution from the M6 motorway network and have a significant public health benefit.
Trees, woodlands, and urban forest are an essential part of the borough’s character and identity and define the neighbourhoods and areas of where we live, work and play. They breathe life into communities and provide a welcoming backdrop to the stresses and demands to everyday life. They provide us with a reminder of the seasons, acting as natures clock in defining changes through the year, be that spring, autumn or winter.
Walsall is geologically and topographically diverse, comprising leafier suburbs across the eastern side of the borough with denser tree canopies and a more rural landscape within a patchwork of farmland, green spaces, and parks to the west, defining the industrial heritage of the town.
All local authorities have a duty to protect our natural heritage and value the asset of their trees. Walsall should be no exception to this in its management of a large numbers of trees both directly and indirectly to ensure their preservation for future generations and contribute to tackling the wider implications of climate change and biodiversity loss.
We have perhaps never appreciated scraps of green space more than during the covid -19 pandemic. During lockdowns, residents have found park and open spaces an unexpected source of calm and joy and they have had a positive impact on peoples Mental Health and Wellbeing.
The Council should be committed to protecting and enhancing the quality of the natural and historic environment, in both rural and urban areas. Planning policies should seek to protect and enhance the quality, character and amenity value of the countryside and urban areas. Protection should be given to most valued townscapes and landscapes, wildlife habitats and natural resources. Planning Policy should contribute positively to making places better for people, this document and proposals are inappropriate in this context, and should be withdrawn.