A. Dudley

Showing comments and forms 1 to 30 of 748

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 10578

Received: 18/08/2021

Respondent: Mr Stephen James Pratt

Representation Summary:

The strategy for Dudley does not allocate all the strategic growth locations recommended in the 2018 GBHMA Strategic Growth Study, which aimed to show how current identified shortfalls in housing from the GBHMA could be met. By failing to make adequate housing provision through making new allocations recommended in this study, the BCP fails to fully meet the housing needs of the Black Country and Dudley in particular.

Support

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 10907

Received: 24/08/2021

Respondent: Roy Burgess

Representation Summary:

Dear Planners
I have studied the above documents and plans.
Pleased to see that the Green Belt at Coombeswood , Illey and Lapal , Hasbury, Cradley and
Woollescote in the Halesowen Area is not to listed for built development.
These areas of Historic Landscape high in landscape value form an overall value which should
remain in its entirety. The presence of a network of Public Footpaths within this special countryside provides a valuable asset for informal recreational use.
I therefore support the proposed plan in respect of the Green Belt Issues.
Please could you acknowledge this E Mail
Your Sincerely,

Support

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 10917

Received: 19/08/2021

Respondent: Philip Briarty

Representation Summary:

I am pleased, following review of the Green Belt around Halesowen, that ‘The Plan’ is supporting the protection of special green belt areas around Coombswood, Lapal, Grange Hill,Tack Farm,Hayley Green, Lutley, Foxcote Farm etc.. and are rejecting the ‘Call for Sites’ proposals that would severely damage these areas and adversely impact upon neighbouring special sites in Worcestershire including ancient Uffmoor Wood; the Clent Hills; and the Hagley Estate, including, of course, the prominent Iron Age Fort on Wychbury Hill.
This is a special countryside, which should receive appropriate recognition for its contribution to the to the informal recreational needs of a wide community, including, of course those of the individual Black Country Authorities, but also the needs of Birmingham; North Worcestershire and beyond.
In the 1980s and subsequent decades, Dudley Council through its Countryside Service followed a policy known as the ‘Dudley Countryside Management Plan’, to promote and improve this countryside for landscape; biodiversity; historic and informal recreational values
The benefits of that policy are still palpable today and were particularly valuable to the mental physical well being of many users who benefited from this countryside during Covid 19 restrictions
Walk leaflets promote this countryside and are every popular
The balance, which is very sensitive and depends upon the whole, as much as the component areas ,is delicate and would be severely damaged by urban developments, including the new roads and infrastructure.
I reiterate my support

Comment

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 11035

Received: 17/08/2021

Respondent: Mrs Valerie Sables

Representation Summary:

Please do not allow any of our precious green belt to be use for housing or any building. The environment is too precious and needed for our futures on this planet so say no to Tack Farm, Lapal and Lutley proposed developments

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 11053

Received: 09/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Stephen Hunter

Representation Summary:

Black country plan REF DUH 206 (Worcester Lane North) ,DUH 207 (Worcester Lane Central) ,DUH209 (Worcester Lane South).

I wish to hereby formally object to the proposed development of these three sites.
The reasons for my objections are as follows -

Loss of local green space and deterioration of residents well being.
Loss of fauna and flora in the locality.
Any development would be out of keeping with the local area.
No loss of greenbelt land in the Borough was promised by the West Midlands Mayor Andy Street.
Development would result in increased traffic and pollution to the area.
it would result in dangerous traffic situations due to any service road entries onto Worcester Lane.
Unacceptable increase in the already overstretched local facilities and amenities significantly such as schools, doctors surgeries, traffic, parking etc upon we are already suffering the impact, due to our location close to the boundary of Worcestershire, of substantial local housing developments altready constructed and proposed within the Hagley area.
This land forms part of the natural boundary between Pedmore and Hagley and if it progresses will lose the historical identity between the two areas.

Comment

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 11362

Received: 30/09/2021

Respondent: Mrs Christine Hedges

Representation Summary:

Greenfield areas in Dudley should be preserved for the physical and mental wellbeing of the community, for the wildlife that live there and for water management purposes.

Comment

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 11432

Received: 02/10/2021

Respondent: Mrs Alison Davies

Representation Summary:

Good site suggestions for Halesowen.
Clear maps.
Regenerate our town centres and use Merry Hill for housing

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 11886

Received: 10/10/2021

Respondent: Dr Christine Farmer

Representation Summary:

[Three Fields - LGS]

Site: ID 10511, The Three Fields, Norton, DY8 3LS (site ID number as it appears in the Site Assessment Report, section A-6: Sites Assessed for Local Green Space, from p. 534).

I object to this site not being designated as a Local Green Space (LGS). This is a comment on an unallocated site, which was assessed for a Local Green Space Designation in the Site Assessment Report as referenced above.

This site is of great importance to the local community and has local significance due to its beauty and recreational use, and this should be recognised in the Local Plan. While I welcome the fact that the site has not been allocated in the Draft Plan, I believe that 'greenbelt' designation alone does not sufficiently protect the site from future development at a time when local authorities are coming under increasing pressure to release greenbelt sites. A LGS designation would indicate the particular significance of the site to the local community above that of being 'greenbelt'.

The Three Fields is a site which is of tremendous importance to the local residents who use it every day of the year for informal recreation, the site being of great value to the socially isolated, for making friendships and connections. The site is easily reached by a great many people travelling on foot rather than by car. Local people use it for exercise, for taking in the magnificent scenery, as a ‘green gym’, which is of vital importance considering the considerable health issues that local people face. It is an excellent site for setting off for a ramble, for children and adolescents to play and enjoy the open countryside feel of the site. For those with mental health issues it is a place to spend time in green and peaceful surroundings amongst birdsong and nature.

Local residents would also like to see this site improved for nature, with the establishment of a wildflower meadow, and there are plans to make this a reality with the help of local volunteers. Local schools are also interested in taking part in these activities which could include all sections of society.

These are just some of the many reasons why this site is of immense significance to local people, and why the loss of it for recreational use in particular would be devastating. I believe it is important that this significance is recognised in the Local Plan, and that a Local Green Space designation would indicate the value of The Three Fields to local residents.

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 11887

Received: 10/10/2021

Respondent: Mr Richard Fry

Representation Summary:

[Three Fields - LGS]

Site: ID 10511, The Three Fields, Norton, DY8 3LS (site ID number as it appears in the Site Assessment Report, section A-6: Sites Assessed for Local Green Space, from p. 534).

I object to this site not being designated as a Local Green Space (LGS). This is a comment on an unallocated site, which was assessed for a Local Green Space Designation in the Site Assessment Report as referenced above, and was found to meet the criteria for this designation on the grounds of its recreational value and its beauty.

I welcome the fact that this site has not been allocated in the Draft Local Plan, and that it will continue to be protected as ‘green belt’. However, at a time when local authorities are being pressured into allocating sites within the green belt for development, being ‘green belt’ is in itself no guarantee of the future protection of a site. And it is true to say that “green belts do not recognise... the community value of land” (Neighbourhood Planning, 2019, para.134)

In this current draft Local Plan, green belt sites have been assessed against various criteria to determine whether the release of one site or another would cause ‘greater harm’. So it follows that where potential harm can be demonstrated, this should be recognised in the Local Plan.

This site does not currently have other designations, such as a SLINC, to demonstrate its value. A LGS designation would indicate clearly that harm would be caused to the local community through the loss of this site. It would be a considerable loss to local residents if they could no longer access these fields for recreation, and to appreciate their beauty and tranquillity.

Government guidance says that a LGS designation would “help to identify areas that are of particular importance to the local community” (“Open space, sports and recreation facilities, public rights of way and local green space”, HMG 2014, Para: 010). I believe that this site should be designated as a LGS so that it will be less likely to be allocated for development in future years.

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 11987

Received: 10/10/2021

Respondent: Mrs Lydia Ellis

Representation Summary:

NPPF is set by people in London with no understanding of local issues. Dudley has limited greenbelt and it should be preserved.

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 11993

Received: 10/10/2021

Respondent: Mrs Lydia Ellis

Representation Summary:

Dudley needs to look after Dudley’s interests first. People in Stourbridge have very little to do with other areas of Black Country and are more linked to Worcestershire and Bham - the Black Country partnership is historic and not relevant.

Support

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 12286

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Mr DARRYL CARTWRIGHT

Representation Summary:

We 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.
Circa 1989 Dudley Council, following a previous Green Belt review, improved the Public Rights of Way network in these areas by working in collaboration with local volunteer groups. Following on from that the Council promoted enjoyment of this countryside by the public 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 Council. In doing so they appreciated the important relationship between this ancient coppice woodland and neighbouring farmland, including Tack Farm which is the site of a former Anglo-Saxon mill (Notwic Mill).
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 the historic Lutley Mill and the green lane that links it to the mediaeval hamlet of Lutley which was once held by the Canons of Wolverhampton.
Foxcote, which forms the foreground se ng of the Iron Age Fort on Wychbury Hill, and historically is linked to it, is archaeologically rich with finds of flint arrow heads, flint scrapers, axes and other tools. It was the site of ancient hunting summer camps and, in part, this explains the wide scatter of historic ‘finds’.
The countryside hereby defined is important to people from far afield and, within the wider landscape, encompasses the famed and beautiful Clent Hills, a large area of which is owned and managed by the National Trust. We must also consider the Hagley Hall Estate which includes a large proportion of Wychbury Hill, the importance of which was acknowledged in the 18th Century by George Lyttelton in his creation of Hagley Park which is now a Grade 1 Listed Garden. On Wychbury Hill are two significant follies, ‘The Temple of Theseus’ and ‘The Obelisk’, tastefully exploiting the landscape prominence of the hill and the presence of the fort.
The whole of this area, including that within Dudley Borough, is of regional importance as an amenity asset for the wellbeing of, and enjoyment by, a large population. We personally spend many hours of enjoyment walking in these areas, appreciating their beauty and the fresh air. It would be so simple to seriously, and hence permanently, damage the area with inappropriate developments and associated infrastructure.

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 12376

Received: 08/09/2021

Respondent: Miss Amy Keogh

Representation Summary:

My objections relate to the Bromwich Lane field (site reference number SA-0016-DUD) which I understand is not currently being considered for development, however I have been informed that the developer is able to make representations both during the consultation phase and the subsequent phase up to 2023 to reinstate their development proposals relating to the Bromwich Lane field.

I have a number of objections to raise as follows:
1. Ensuring the protection of green belt land;
2. Ensuring the local authority protects the land for public enjoyment and amenity;
3. Maintaining the drainage provided by the field on the basis a number of surrounding areas are often subject to flooding;
4. The additional pressure that will be placed on local amenities, such as doctors, dentists and schools.

Protection of Green Belt land

As you are aware the fundamental aim of Green Belt policy is to prevent urban sprawl by keeping land permanently open, preventing neighbouring towns from merging and safeguarding the countryside. Any development of the Bromwich Lane field would be a breach of all of these aims. It is imperative that Green Belt is retained and preserved by the local community from external developers who have no interest in the local area other than any financial gain they can extract.

Protecting the land for public enjoyment and amenity

My property is subject to 13 TPOs and the purpose of those orders is to protect such trees for public enjoyment and amenity. I would assume that the field and a number of trees, shrubs and the wildlife that inhabit it are also protected for public enjoyment and amenity. The field is used by the local community for walks and I often see wildlife moving between my garden and the field. If I am required to maintain and protect trees on my property for public enjoyment I would expect that the council owes that responsibility in return in respect of the field.

Drainage provided by the field

As local areas become more built up the area for water absorption is being reduced daily, the field is an essential absorption pad for the area and helps to limit the local flooding which I have been subject to.

Pressure on local amenities

I moved to the area 2 months ago and I have struggled to find a doctors who would be able to take me and my family as patients. I have not yet been able to find a dentist in the area that has capacity to take us as a family due to over subscription for their services. Prior to purchasing our home we spent a considerable amount of time researching local schools, catchment areas and distances and there is increased pressure on local schools which are turning a considerable number of pupils away upon application. There is no capacity to increase Hagley Primary which is currently a 3 form entry and following the Cala Estate development it was considered and determined that no further forms could be added, as such I would assume further pressure for places at schools would be placed on schools in Stourbridge.

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 12498

Received: 17/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Wayne Round

Representation Summary:

SA-0199-DUD / BCP REF DUH222 – Severn Drive [Green space]
I strongly wish to register my objection to the building of houses on Severn Drive, Brierley Hill.
1. More housing will overcrowd the area , overcrowding leads to increase in spread of disease !
Particularly relevant given the recent COVID pandemic .
2. 2 invaluable green sites / play areas / open spaces will be lost forever to the local community.
3. There will be a drastic increased demand in already overstretched Emergency services
4. Increased demand in already overfill schools , doctors , dentists , hospital services
5.increased accident risk , particularly at Bryce road , but also at Corbyns Hall road which is already
a risk as people double park or park in considerately .
6.We have an active bat community on Severn Drive
7.Loss of green spaces will
Mean there is nowhere local for neighbouring housing estates to bring children to play .
8. Loss of space for community events
9. Increased demand in sewage pipes
10. Tree preservation orders on existing trees , what will happen to those trees ?
11. This proposal is already affecting this community’s mental health , our Community are
anxious and upset about the possibility of losing this space .
12. We should not have to fight to retain already sparce green space !
13.increased pollution Locally from all the extra traffic .
14 Extra traffic on already full roads !
15. Dramatically Changing the landscape of Severn Drive , which has always been a quite highly
sought after cul de sac
16. We currently have the pleasure of a highly reputable local businessman who trains his dogs to
enter the world renown Crufts competition - it is a sight to behold where would he go ??
17.We regularly see while families who use this green space to play and have fun
18.loss of dog walking green space would mean an increase in dog fouling on the footpaths !
19. An increase in houses will
Mean and increase in noise!
20 increased community conflicts
21.loss of our beautiful view .
22.loss of Light !

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 12820

Received: 20/09/2021

Respondent: Mr Terry Hartwell

Representation Summary:

I totally object to the proposal to build houses on the greenfield site adjacent to the Worcester Lane Stourbridge.
The reason for my objections are that this land is valuable agricultural land it is a valuable natural habitat for wildlife it is valuable land for leisure purposes for the local community.
It also creates a natural break between Worcestershire and Stourbridge.
The loss of this land to houses would create numerable problems, the increase in traffic would cause increase in pollution and in these times of global warming the loss of green land would also cause problems with flooding as the existing land soaks away any heavy rainfall which if the site was turned into tarmac and concrete the water would just run off creating more flooding problems.

These proposals are totally out of keeping with the local area the local infrastructure will be put under further strain i.e. schools doctors and dentist which already are overloaded with the current number of residents. Why when local councillors, members of parliament the mayor of the West Midlands conurbation all agree that no greenfield sites should be considered before all brownfield sites have been used, so why have the planners included any greenfield sites when there are Brownfield sites totally acceptable for building houses, is it a case that it is just easier to build on virgin land than on land that has to be cleared and prepared, increasing the cost for the developers with no benefit to the local community.

Any new housing development programs should be community lead not developer lead.

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13057

Received: 18/09/2021

Respondent: Prakash Patel

Representation Summary:

WHY? do you need to build 7 houses in Bent street(Brierley Hill).
THERE ARE PLENTY OF EMPTY HOUSES IN BRIERLEY HILL THAT COULD BE BOUGHT AND RENOVATED ALSO PLENTY OF EMPTY FACTORY UNITS (FOR YESRS THAT COULD BE KNOCKED DOWN AND BUILD HOUSES ON).

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13098

Received: 18/09/2021

Respondent: John Payne

Representation Summary:

[Unallocated sites]

I am objecting to 'Land at Junction 3, M5' being included in the BCP after local people have previously and successfully campaigned against it, supported by our MP and local councillors. There are a number of objections that can be made, eg. greenfield site, congestion along the feeder road.

In addition, I want to question the way the process has been conducted, in particular, the subsumption of the four metropolitan councils under the title 'Black Country'. Although it is a commonly used term, it has, I believe, no constitutional legitimacy. Does this not, thereby, render the process invalid?

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13101

Received: 16/09/2021

Respondent: Jennifer Cooper

Representation Summary:

Black country plan REF DUH 206,207,209

Please note that I wish to Object to the proposed development of these three sites.
Grounds being
1) Destruction of natural habitat to many wild bird species , small mammals, and bats
2) Loss of an important leisure facility for the people of Stourbridge, walking, jogging, bird watching, pigeon racing and model aeroplane flying
3) Loss of valuable agricultural land in a post Brexit environment of rising food prices and shortages
4) Highway safety. The B4187 is a fast 'winding" road with a history of nasty vehicle accidents
5) increased risk of flooding. The B4187 already regularly floods in several places a further "paving over" of open ground will only increase this risk and its regularity.
6) Increased pollution risk. Not only from the increased number of vehicle movements but also the loss of a valuable natural set of "lungs" that cleans the air.
7) Local infrastructure insufficient to cater for a large influx of families
8) This area of land is a natural buffer separating the borough of Dudley , West Midlands from Hagley a large village in Worcestershire without which it becomes one large conurbation blurring the identities and histories of the two parts.
9) Proposed development is out of keeping with local area

Comment

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13121

Received: 19/09/2021

Respondent: Mr David Robinson

Representation Summary:

The proposal to build on the green field site adjacent to Worcester Road is totally
unjustified. This area provided a safe haven to people of the Borough during the
COVID outbreak and may still be needed in the future. Developers will always want
the cheapest option but the loss of such valuable green belt is on forgivable. It must
be stopped.
D.C.Robinson

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13122

Received: 13/09/2021

Respondent: Darren Ford

Representation Summary:

As a resident of [address disclosed] I am very disappointed to hear that the council is considering releasing even more of our vital green belt land. I would like to take this opportunity to lodge my objection on the following grounds :-
1. Priority - the wider borough obviously has a history of industrial use and there is without doubt a multitude of brown field sites that should be consider prior to any precious green belt.

2. Practicality - the site along the Worcester Road (B4187) runs alongside the railway cutting between Hagley and Stourbridge Stations. This railway needs regular and specific maintenance by large machinery and access is always required. This obviously hasn't been considered as this fact alone makes building redevelopment of the site impractical.

3. Safety - the road is already busy and suffers from speeding drivers between Hagley and the crossroads at Stourbridge Golf Course. Any increase in residential housing will no doubt increase traffic and bring increased risk to adults and children alike either using the Worcester Lane park or crossing with dogs or walking in the fields.

4. Mental Health and Wellbeing - COVID has proven just how valuable this area of green belt has been to the local community and has been a life-line for people needing to walk, excercise, spend valuable time with children and dogs etc. Removal of this passage to the fields beyond would mean a tangible negative effect on peoples health and wellbeing.

5. Environmental - simply put this is an area of beauty that brings joy to people but is also of course a vital area for widlife and insects. At this time more than ever surely you must see this as needless environmental impact - see again point 1.

6. Amenities - already doctors, playgroups, schools etc are at and beyond capacity, how exactly is this plan being considered without the necessary local amentities being in place.
In summary and put simply the protection of our environment is more important than ever and we should all be doing all we can to protect green belt, especially when we know there are numerous brown field sites that would actually benefit from redevelopment as opposed to the council allowing the destruction of green belt.

Comment

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13130

Received: 20/09/2021

Respondent: Councillor Richard Body

Representation Summary:

My mind is made up. No development on Dudley's precious and vital greenbelt, full stop!
This council should stand up for Dudley and put forward a case to show Dudley can give away no more greenbelt.

Over many, many years greenbelt around the borough's boundary has been eroded way. There comes a time when the council should step into the ring and fight for our future generations health and wellbeing. That time is now!

What tiny amounts of green space currently within the borough's boundary should be totally and utterly off limits!

Comment

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13201

Received: 05/10/2021

Respondent: Mr Bharat Gandhi

Representation Summary:

LOCAL AUTHORITY DUDLEY:
1. SHOULD BE ABLE TO HAVE ACCESS TO/USE WOLVERHAMPTON CITY COUNCIL'S HOUSEHOLD WASTE & RECYCLING CENTRE DESPITE RESIDENT IN DUDLEY AS IT IS LESS THAN HALF MILE AWAY.
2. BETER MAINTENANCE OF LOCAL ROADS
3. IMPROVE DRAINAGE & SEWARAGE SYSTEMS

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13265

Received: 11/10/2021

Respondent: Miss Abigail Westwood

Representation Summary:

SA-0050 DUD / BCP REF DUH 216 - Bryce Road
SA-0199 DUD / BCP REF DUH 222 - Severn Drive
I oppose the planned developments for the following reasons:
- Pensnett has no doctors or dentists, building on these sites would put strain on already overstretched health care services.
- As a resident of the estate off Severn Drive building on the green space would cause extensive noise and mess that would effect my day-to-day life. As well as causing difficulty on my daily commute.
- Children use the green space to play and meet with friends, building on this would force them play on the heavily congested main road or on a building site.
- The green space is used widely by the community for a social space and for dog walking / exercise.
- Schools in the area are already oversubscribed, unless serious money is going to be put into the education sector, building would worsen an already dire situation!

I am a supporter of building houses to help solve the housing crisis but now when other more appropriate sites are being over looked in favour of local green space that is widely used by my community.

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13373

Received: 02/10/2021

Respondent: Mr Brian Court

Representation Summary:

MORE HOUSES IN THIS AREA MEANS MOER CARS. THE MAIN ROAD A4101 IS CONJUSTED EVERY WAY

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13469

Received: 21/09/2021

Respondent: Donna Reynolds

Representation Summary:

I wish to register the following objections to the proposed green sites on severn Drive (DUH222)
for example, traffic, play area, insufficient infrastructure, acess to hospital, doctors, etc.

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13526

Received: 04/10/2021

Respondent: Mr James Higgs

Representation Summary:

My first objection is to the intended use of prime greenbelt land in Dudley MBC. There is no need to use this. The plan clearly shows that there are adequate sites that could be used for residential development instead - these are shown as having been 'rejected' by assessments that simply list difficulties in development - these are not good enough reasons for rejection at the expense of greenbelt. All 50+ sites should be put into the plan instead of the greenbelt and the difficulties sorted over the 15 year plan life - the easy option of using greenbelt is wrong.

Object

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13660

Received: 10/10/2021

Respondent: Mr Liam Wyle

Representation Summary:

Objection to The Three Fields, Norton, DY8 3LS not receiving a Local Green Space Designation (site
ID 10511 as it appears in the Site Assessment Report, section A-6: Sites Assessed for Local Green
Space, from p. 534).

This is a comment on an unallocated site.

While I support the non-allocation of the Three Fields, Norton (site reference SA-0076-DUD as it
appears in Appendix A:Dudley) in the Draft Local Plan and its continued protection under green belt
designation, I believe that due to the pressure on local authorities to release green belt land for
development, sites which have particular significance and importance to the local community should
be identified and protected by the additional designation of Local Green Space.

Three Fields meets criteria for the designation of Local Green Space. It meets all of Part A
criteria, including being ‘local in character’ and being in ‘close proximity to the community it
serves’ (NPPF). The site is “demonstrably special to the local community”, as evidenced by the
supporting evidence submitted alongside the original LGS application. The site is extensively used
by the local community, is important to residents of all ages and from all groups, regarded as a
tremendous community amenity seen as adding value to the local area, important for maintaining
community spirit, and an asset that should be passed on to future generations.

The site has been assessed as meeting two of the Part B criteria (Beauty and Recreation) and
therefore meets national criteria for a Local Green Space. Beauty: The site is visually attractive,
offers magnificent panoramic views, and contributes to local identity, character of the area and a
sense of place. Recreational value: The site has been used for informal recreation for over 50
years, is popular with walkers, cyclists, and those using the site as a ‘green gym’. It forms part of a wider green
corridor and offers walkers access to the wider countryside. It is used by dog walkers, and
encourages a ‘sense of community’ amongst the socially isolated. It is very popular with children,
for informal recreation, games, and nature study. The site has been used in the past for organised
social activities and could be used again for similar activities as well as by local schools and
community groups in activities related to the local natural environment.

The Site Assessment summary for this site quotes the NPPF; “if land is already protected by
Greenbelt Policy then consideration should be given to whether any additional local benefits would
be gained by designations as local green space”, and suggests that since the site is green belt,
“there would not be any additional local benefits” in designating the site a LGS (p. 537 of Appendix
A).

However, Government guidance on LGS designation states that even within green belts a LGS
designation can “help to identify areas that are of particular importance to the local community”
(“Open space, sports and recreation facilities, public rights of way and local green space”, HMG
2014, Para: 010). Green Belt designation itself does not recognise any additional value to the
local community which a site may have above the five stated purposes of the green belt. Specifically,
“green belts do not recognise… the community value of land” (Neighbourhood Planning, 2019,
para.134).
Given the ever-growing pressure exerted on local authorities to release Green Belt sites for
development, a LGS designation would demonstrate the importance of this site to the local community
and its local significance beyond that of being simply ‘green belt’. This site should therefore be
granted a Local Green Space designation.

Tranquillity: This site should be protected under Policy GB1 (4) on protecting tranquil areas. The
site is experienced as a natural space, and is described by visitors as a ‘piece of the
countryside’. It is often possible to observe and listen to the sounds of farm animals in adjacent
fields. It is possible to enjoy sunrise and sunsets, and because of Dark Skies, the stars at night.
There are extensive views over local countryside, fields, woodland and distant hills. The dominant
soundscape is that of birdsong. The NPPF states that planning policies should “identify and protect
tranquil areas which have remained relatively undisturbed by noise and are prized for their
recreational and amenity value for this reason” (NPPF 2019, para 180(b)). The government guidelines
on what constitutes a tranquil place is that it is “relatively undisturbed by noise from human
sources that undermine the intrinsic character of the area” with a positive soundscape for e.g. of
birdsong. (“Guidance: Noise”, HMG 2019, para. 8).

Designations: The site has mature hedgerows which should be surveyed. Other hedgerows in the
locality recently received SLINC protection (Racecourse Lane SLINC, Norton).

I would also like to add that the three field site is much needed and used open space. It is vital
that we keep greenfield sites like this one, with today being mental health awareness day, I can say
that the three fields helps myself and the community more than we know. [Redacted] I hope
this site is here for generations to come.

In regards to the global warming crisis there is evidence showing that large open green spaces help
with carbon storage, capturing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.

Support

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13661

Received: 28/10/2021

Respondent: Ms Lauren Parkes

Representation Summary:

To Whom It May Concern,
Please acknowledge receipt of this email.

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.

Circa 1989, Dudley Council, following a previous Green Belt review, improved the Public Rights of Way network in these areas, by working in collaboration with local volunteer groups. Following on from that, the Council promoted enjoyment of this countryside, by the public, 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. In doing so, they appreciated the important relationship between this ancient coppice woodland and neighbouring farmland, including Tack Farm, which is the site of a former Anglo-Saxon mill (Notwic Mill).

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 and the green lane that links it to the mediaeval hamlet of Lutley, which was once held by the Canons of Wolverhampton. Foxcote, which forms the foreground setting of the Iron Age Fort on Wychbury Hill and historically is linked to it, is archaeologically rich with frequent finds of flint arrow heads, flint scrapers, axes and other tools. It was the site of ancient hunting summer camps, and, in part, this explains the wide scatter of historic ‘finds’.

The countryside, hereby defined, is important to people from far afield, and, within the wider landscape, encompasses the famed and beautiful Clent Hills, a major area of which is owned and managed by the National Trust. We must also consider the Hagley Hall Estate, which includes a major proportion of Wychbury Hill, the importance of which was acknowledged in the 18th Century, by George Lyttelton, in his creation of Hagley Park, which is now a Grade 1 Listed Garden. On
Wychbury Hill are two significant ‘follies’ - The Temple of Theseus and The Obelisk, tastefully exploiting the landscape prominence of the hill and the presence of the fort.

The whole of this area, including that within Dudley Borough, is of regional importance as an amenity asset for the welfare of, and enjoyment by, a large population. It would be so simple to seriously damage the area with inappropriate developments and associated infrastructure.

Support

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13695

Received: 28/10/2021

Respondent: Ms Leanne Waldron

Representation Summary:

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

Circa 1989, Dudley Council, following a previous Green Belt review, improved the Public Rights of Way network in these areas, by working in collaboration with local volunteer groups. Following on from that, the Council promoted enjoyment of this countryside, by the public, 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. In doing so, they appreciated the important relationship between this ancient coppice woodland and neighbouring farmland, including Tack Farm, which is the site of a former Anglo-Saxon mill (Notwic Mill).

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 and the green lane that links it to the mediaeval hamlet of Lutley, which was once held by the Canons of Wolverhampton. Foxcote, which forms the foreground setting of the Iron Age Fort on Wychbury Hill and historically is linked to it, is archaeologically rich with frequent finds of flint arrow heads, flint scrapers,
axes and other tools. It was the site of ancient hunting summer camps, and, in part, this explains
the wide scatter of historic ‘finds’.

The countryside, hereby defined, is important to people from far afield, and, within the wider landscape, encompasses the famed and beautiful Clent Hills, a major area of which is owned and managed by the National Trust. We must also consider the Hagley Hall Estate, which includes a major proportion of Wychbury Hill, the importance of which was acknowledged in the 18th Century, by George Lyttelton, in his creation of Hagley Park, which is now a Grade 1 Listed Garden. On Wychbury Hill are two significant ‘follies’ - The Temple of Theseus and The Obelisk, tastefully exploiting the
landscape prominence of the hill and the presence of the fort.

The whole of this area, including that within Dudley Borough, is of regional importance as an amenity asset for the welfare of, and enjoyment by, a large population. It would be so simple to seriously damage the area with inappropriate developments and associated infrastructure.

Support

Draft Black Country Plan

Representation ID: 13710

Received: 04/10/2021

Respondent: Mrs Linda Conway

Representation Summary:

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.

Circa 1989, Dudley Council, following a previous Green Belt review, improved the Public Rights of Way network in these areas, by working in collaboration with local volunteer groups. Following on from that, the Council promoted enjoyment of this countryside, by the public, for informal recreation. They supported the production of walk leaflets explaining the historic, landscape and ecological significance of each area.

The Council even contributed [redacted] towards The Woodland Trust purchasing Uffmoor Wood, despite this being just outside the Borough Boundary and coming under Bromsgrove. In doing so, they appreciated the important relationship between this ancient coppice woodland and neighbouring farmland, including Tack Farm, which is the site of a former Anglo-Saxon mill (Notwic Mill).

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 and the green lane that links it to the mediaeval hamlet of Lutley, which was once held by the Canons of Wolverhampton.
Foxcote, which forms the foreground setting of the Iron Age Fort on Wychbury Hill and historically is linked to it, is archaeologically rich [redacted]. It was the site of ancient hunting summer camps, and, in part, this explains the wide scatter of historic ‘finds’.

The countryside, hereby defined, is important to people from far afield, and, within the wider landscape, encompasses the famed and beautiful Clent Hills, a major area of which is owned and managed by the National Trust. We must also consider the Hagley Hall Estate, which includes a major proportion of Wychbury Hill, the importance of which was acknowledged in the 18th Century, by George Lyttelton, in his creation of Hagley Park, which is now a Grade 1 Listed Garden. On Wychbury Hill are two significant ‘follies’ - The Temple of Theseus and The Obelisk, tastefully exploiting the landscape prominence of the hill and the presence of the fort.

The whole of this area, including that within Dudley Borough, is of regional importance as an amenity asset for the welfare of, and enjoyment by, a large population. It would be so simple to seriously damage the area with inappropriate developments and associated infrastructure.