Support

Representation ID: 17092

Received: 30/09/2021

Respondent: House of Commons

I would like to begin by welcoming the commitment in the BCP to preserve the protection of the Green Belt Land to the south of Halesowen.

For several years I have been working alongside local Councillors and residents to ensure that this land remains free from development, for historical, aesthetic and environmental reasons, and I am pleased that the objections raised have been noted. This land is a hallmark of the gateway to Halesowen for those who arrive from Junction 3 of the M5.

As this Consultation notes, the Options Consultation of 2017 in response to the draft BCP noted that there was a desire to protect the environment of the Black Country, and whilst I understand the concerns being raised by some of my colleagues over loss of green belt space in their constituencies, I am satisfied with the overall outcome for Halesowen & Rowley Regis.

It remains my belief that this land to the south of Halesowen should be permanently excluded from any development proposals, as should the Coombeswood Wedge, and that Policy CSP3 of the BCP should be adequate justification to keep this green belt land protected.