Support

Representation ID: 46113

Received: 03/09/2021

Respondent: Wendy Jarvis

Black Country Plan -

Support for the Protection of Green Belt Around Halesowen

I support the Council’s continued protection of countryside at Lapal, Illey, Coombeswood, Uffmoor, Hayley Green, Lutley and Foxcote, following a formal review of the Green Belt.

Dudley Council have always worked hard to improve our green belt; they have improved the Public Rights of Way network in these areas, by working in collaboration with local volunteer groups. The council promoted enjoyment of this countryside for informal recreation. They supported the production of walk leaflets explaining the historic, landscape and ecological significance of each area. The Council even contributed £20,000 towards The Woodland Trust purchasing Uffmoor Wood, despite this being just outside the Borough Boundary and coming under Bromsgrove.

Greenbelt has never been more appreciated. Covid and lockdown has really proven how important nature, space, wildlife and landscape are to positive mental health.

This countryside, protected by Green Belt designation, is rich in history. At Lapal and Illey are the remains of Halesowen Abbey, which is a Scheduled Ancient Monument of National Importance. At Lutley we have a Conservation Area associated with historic Lutley Mill. Foxcote, Wychbury Hill, Bumblehole, Wren’s Nest, Coombeswood, Leasowes, Hagley, are all crucial parts of Black Country history and heritage.

These areas must be protected as they are of regional importance and are hugely valued by a large population. It would be so simple to seriously damage the area with inappropriate developments and associated infrastructure, but we MUST not let this happen