Comment
Black Country Core Strategy Issue and Option Report
Representation ID: 2951
Received: 08/09/2017
Respondent: Barratt Homes and David Wilson Homes
Agent: Turley Associates
The nine key issues identified at Part 3 of the I&O Report represent the matters which will be integral to the BCCS Review achieving its ambitious plans for growth. 2.39 Mindful of the ambitious levels of growth proposed for the Black Country, the three key issues relating to housing needs, and reviewing the Green Belt, are the most important to take account through the BCCS Review. 2.40 The need to review the role and extent of the Green Belt in order to meet the housing needs of the area should be seen as a critical thread throughout the BCCS Review, reflecting issues specific to the Black Country. The key to unlocking this significant level of growth will be providing sufficient infrastructure (including highways, education and recreation).
2.33 We discuss the strategy to meeting housing needs in the Green Belt in response to Q12a and Q13a.
2.34 The Green Belt Review should be a robust assessment, undertaken in accordance with national planning practice guidance and the NPPF, specifically taking account of the need to promote sustainable patterns of development and not including land that does not serve the five purposes of the Green Belt.
2.35 As part of this the methodology for the Green Belt Review should be published for consultation prior to work commencing. This will be important to ensure the Review is robust and has the support of the development industry.
2.36 The I&O Report indicates the GBHMA Strategic Growth Study (renamed the 'Strategic Locations Study') will "inform and provide the basis" for the Black Country Green Belt Review.