Object

Representation ID: 916

Received: 08/09/2017

Respondent: Mr Adam Stinchcombe

It has come to my attention that there have been plans put forward to assess the green-belt land surrounding Halesowen and the Black Country.

This comes as a great shock to all residents in Halesowen and The Black Country, who love this countryside dearly, and while it is pleasant to walk through and to look upon, it also considered part of our rich, agricultural heritage. This includes the remains of the Halesowen Abbey.

Recognised by the Black Country Core Strategy, there are many brownfield locations located in the Black Country area which bypasses the need to develop on beautiful and unique green-belt land.

Under 'sustainability', the adapted Core Strategy states, 'Brownfield first [for development] - ensuring that previously developed land, particularly where vacant, derelict or underused, is prioritised over greenfield sites'. This proves that plans to develop green-belt land are premature to the situation the Black Country is currently in, and we can and should make better use of our brownfield sites.

As well as above, the Core Strategy also states that a 'high quality environment' will 'protect and enhance the unique biodiversity and geo diversity of the Black Country'. A 'high-quality environment' is clearly at risk to the residents of the Black Country here, therefore not achieving the above criteria.

Will you please record my objection and reply to acknowledge safe receipt? Please keep me informed of progress and of future stages.