Object

Representation ID: 18350

Received: 10/10/2021

Respondent: Nicole Andrews

As a former resident of Sandwell and as someone who now lives just over the border in Birmingham, I have a real passion and interest in the area that I call home. As such, I would like for my objection the proposed plans for housing to be built on the green belt around Sandwell. I am especially concerned about the proposed plan for new housing to be built at the entrance of the Sandwell RSPB reserve.

This particular area of Sandwell is a place of tranquil beauty that has served it's community and those surrounding it well for many years. Having access to such a beautiful outdoor space in Sandwell is a complete asset to the area; the RSPB reserve brings not only birds to the area but scores of people to the area to enjoy this asset.

Of course, there is a real understanding for development that supports the needs of the area and housing, especially for families, is essential. However, I do not believe that the place near to the RSPB reserve is the place for this. The process will have a negative impact on the area and potentially for the birds and wildlife that are settled here. At a time where were are trying to encourage people to consider mental and physical health for wellbeing, a development at the entrance to a space that is well used for this purpose by the community would be detrimental to that.

In trying to balance the needs of the whole community, consideration must be paid to the negative impact that such housing developments on this partiular part of the green belt would impact those who use this space, especially for children and young people in the borough who may otherwise have limited access to nature and; for the wildlife that lives there.

Please do reconsder this part of the plan, building housing at this site would have a real negative impact on the community. It has the real potential to destroy one to the most beautiful areas of Sandwell.