I wish to object to the proposal to build a huge number of homes in Shirley. A disproportionate amount of the development is being pushed onto Shirley. Indeed 800 units or dwellings have already been built or proposed before taking into consideration the further numbers proposed.

Your proposals mean tens of thousands of acres of greenbelt will be lost forever. Greenbelt land around us is of the utmost importance; green belt that we can walk to and through mean we do not increase already high pollution levels and makes a huge difference to the physical health and well being of the residents of Shirley.

The development in the area has already put pressure on the service that can be provided by doctors. Pressure particularly acute because the number of retirement homes built has increased the numbers of older people who naturally have greater medical needs. Trying to contact a doctor is very difficult; being told that you are 77th in a queue is appalling! This is not an isolated incident. Consultation with doctors in the area and a consideration of care services provided is of the utmost importance.

The development that has already taken place has already put infrastructure under unbearable pressure. It cannot cope with the types of vehicles now using it. Buses and other large vehicles are already causing significant damage to roads not constructed to withstand such use. The increased volume of traffic also means frequent traffic jams. Your proposals will put further strain on an already overloaded infrastructure.

I strongly believe that you need to look at:
1. Regeneration in Chelmsley Wood
2. Making better use of the HS2interchange site for housing
3. Bring the Solihull Town Centre Masterplan forward.
Indeed many such suggestions were first made several years ago and are recorded by the council.

If you look at these suggestions you would be able to protect the majority of the sites on the greenbelt. You could also build the kinds of home most needed, in locations that promote sustainable travel.

I wish to have it known that I am disappointed that the Council did not do more to publicise the ‘Draft Local Plan Consultation Response’ and only permitted the legal minimum requirement for consultation, resisting efforts by other parties to get an extension.

New homes are needed but your plans are not fair; you have not considered the environment or the communities that will be impacted.