Question 4 - Site 1 - Barratts Farm

Showing comments and forms 61 to 90 of 94

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9037

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Mr Christopher McDermott

Representation Summary:

this is key greenfield land close to the heart of the village which gives people the chance to enjoy the outdoors and to be fit and healthy. Removing this will reduce the quality of life of those already living in the village. Furthermore the village centre cannot cope with additional traffic using station road and the shops.

Full text:

this is key greenfield land close to the heart of the village which gives people the chance to enjoy the outdoors and to be fit and healthy. Removing this will reduce the quality of life of those already living in the village. Furthermore the village centre cannot cope with additional traffic using station road and the shops.

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9040

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Mr Gary Lindop

Representation Summary:

Far too many houses are proposed to the east of Balsall Common which is highly unfair to our already busy and stretched village in conjunction with the current HS2 development.

Building on Barratts Farm would further narrow the Meriden Gap and continue the urbanisation of our beautiful countryside. It would destroy a huge swathe of Green Belt reaching as far as the Kenilworth Greenway which incorporates many footpaths, accessible and regularly used by the village community.

You are trying to encourage people to be physically active whilst taking away the green space which allows them to do so!!

Full text:

Far too many houses are proposed to the east of Balsall Common which is highly unfair to our already busy and stretched village in conjunction with the current HS2 development.

Building on Barratts Farm would further narrow the Meriden Gap and continue the urbanisation of our beautiful countryside. It would destroy a huge swathe of Green Belt reaching as far as the Kenilworth Greenway which incorporates many footpaths, accessible and regularly used by the village community.

You are trying to encourage people to be physically active whilst taking away the green space which allows them to do so!!

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9064

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Mrs Sharon Lindop

Representation Summary:

Far too many houses are proposed to the east of Balsall Common which is highly unfair to our already busy and stretched village in conjunction with the current HS2 development.

Building on Barratts Farm would further narrow the Meriden Gap and continue the urbanisation of our beautiful countryside. It would destroy a huge swathe of Green Belt reaching as far as the Kenilworth Greenway which incorporates many footpaths, accessible and regularly used by the village community.

You are trying to encourage people to be physically active whilst taking away the green space which allows them to do so!!

Full text:

Far too many houses are proposed to the east of Balsall Common which is highly unfair to our already busy and stretched village in conjunction with the current HS2 development.

Building on Barratts Farm would further narrow the Meriden Gap and continue the urbanisation of our beautiful countryside. It would destroy a huge swathe of Green Belt reaching as far as the Kenilworth Greenway which incorporates many footpaths, accessible and regularly used by the village community.

You are trying to encourage people to be physically active whilst taking away the green space which allows them to do so!!

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9087

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Mrs Debbie Hatfield

Representation Summary:

This land is the Meriden Gap and it must be protected from development. I do not agree with the council's green point calculation for Barratt's Farm at all. We will be joined up with Coventry if this is allowed to go ahead.

Full text:

This land is the Meriden Gap and it must be protected from development. I do not agree with the council's green point calculation for Barratt's Farm at all. We will be joined up with Coventry if this is allowed to go ahead. Grange Farm is not included at all and I feel that this is a much better option and the land is also owned by a sole developer. I do not know how the green points for this area are better than Barratt's Farm.

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9154

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: CPRE Warwickshire Branch

Representation Summary:

Barratt's Farm should NOT be included as an allocated site. The land is an extensive area of farmed countryside which performs a key role in the Meriden Gap. Development of Barratt's Farm would reduce the separation between Balsall Common and the edge of the Coventry built-up area, which is Burton Green, from 2 km to just over 1km. The remaining open land is degraded to an extent by the National Grid switching station, and the row of houses on Waste Lane, whilst nominally within Green Belt, bridges a significant proportion of the Green Gap not occupied by the National Grid site. HS2 if built will then effectively remove the remaining open landscape between Balsall Common and Burton Green.

It is likely that Barratt's Farm on average performs better than site RP51. This is a large tract of land having a Green Belt score of 7.

Draft Concept Plan:
Detailed comments on the Concept Plan for Site 1 have been submitted by local people and Parish Councils. We support the general points that they are making

Full text:

Question 4:
Do you believe that Site 1 Barratt's Farm should be included as an allocated site, if not why not? Do you have any comments on the draft concept masterplan for the site?

Barratt's Farm should NOT be included as an allocated site. The land is an extensive area of farmed countryside which performs a key role in the Meriden Gap. Development of Barratt's Farm would reduce the separation between Balsall Common and the edge of the Coventry built-up area, which is Burton Green, from 2 km to just over 1km. The remaining open land is degraded to an extent by the National Grid switching station, and the row of houses on Waste Lane, whilst nominally within Green Belt, bridges a significant proportion of the Green Gap not occupied by the National Grid site. HS2 if built will then effectively remove the remaining open landscape between Balsall Common and Burton Green.

It is likely that Barratt's Farm on average performs better than site RP51. This is a large tract of land having a Green Belt score of 7.

Draft Concept Plan:
Detailed comments on the Concept Plan for Site 1 have been submitted by local people and Parish Councils. We support the general points that they are making.

Support

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9228

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Colchurch Properties Ltd

Agent: Richard Brown Planning

Representation Summary:

The Barratt's Farm site should be included as an allocated site for all the reasons set out in these representations. It is essential to the future sustainable growth and development of Balsall Common and can contribute significantly to the needs of the settlement going forward.

The settlement is a sustainable location and the site relates well to the settlement, in accordance with NPPF 138. The settlement needs an appropriate quantum of growth to meet its future needs and maintain the existing services by virtue of additional population.

The development will not adversely impact upon the setting and special character of Balsall Common as a historic town or settlement as set out in the Green Belt Assessment.

Full text:

See Letters 1&2

Attachments:

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9249

Received: 14/03/2019

Respondent: Mrs Karen Hawcutt

Representation Summary:

Concern over erosion of green belt and narrowing of strip of Meriden Gap at Barretts Farm between Balsall Common/Coventry. Purpose to prevent urban sprawl being lost. Should investigate fully brownfield opportunities.
Concept Masterplan does not consider increased traffic, impact on village centre, parking, as 900 homes means potentially 1800 more cars in area.
Concept Plan MUST be strong in order to avoid piecemeal development as site complex with many landowners. Also because of the disruption of HS2 building must not start until after the completion of this major project.
Increased pollution, loss of wildlife habitat and rural aspect.

Full text:

SMBC's Draft Local Plan concerning Berkswell and Balsall Common.

I have lived in the Berkswell and Balsall Common area since 1971 and have watched as strips and parcels of land have been obtained and built on. Houses are needed, however there has to be a limit to the number of buildings that an area can take without there being fundamental damage to the environment and the quality of life for existing residents. The many housing estates that have been built has led to a haphazard and topsy turvy village with the village centre not able to cope with the increase of people or vehicles that additional housing has caused.

The residents of Balsall Common need a clear vision for the enhancing and improvement of the centre and the plan does not provide this. It appears that it will be more of the same standard lookalike housing estates with the further erosion of precious green belt and further loss of amenities for present residents. The only guarantee is that the semi rural


My major concern is the erosion of the green belt. Barrett's Farm is the narrowest strip of the Meriden Gap and yet this is going to lose its preservation of green belt status. We know that the City of Coventry has made plans to build up to the boundary with Berkswell and there is already construction in Burton Green on the other side. If you allow Barretts Farm to be built upon, Berkswell and Balsall Common will merge into an urban conurbation that is the West Midlands with no consideration for the residents or the natural environment. The purpose of the Green Belt was to prevent and restrain urban sprawl. Seems to me that this is being ignored and you as a council are failing to consider the existing residents.

Once the land is released from Green Belt status it will be lost forever. Whilst the argument for new houses cannot be refuted there has to a better way. There seems to be a reluctance by you as a council to investigate fully the potential of brown field sites.

The Concept plan for Barrett's Farm does not consider increased traffic, the impact on the village centre, parking, as 900 homes means that there are potentially 1800 more cars in the area.

I believe that Solihull Council are aware of the major parking issues in Station Road, Balsall Common at the present time. This despite there being a station car park (usually full) and parking all along Hall Meadow Road . As a resident on Station Road I can confirm that reversing out of my narrow drive is precarious at best and down right dangerous most of the time. This is because I have a 4 way intersection to consider in addition to this the road is lined with stationary vehicles and therefore my sight line is poor and I fear that there will be a terrible accident at some point. If there are more houses and therefore more cars I cannot imagine the chaos and congestion that that will incur.
Existing roads are insufficient to deal with the massive increase in vehicles when all of these properties are built. Add to this the construction traffic and disturbance due to HS2 and life in the area will be intolerable.
Due to the complexities of the Barrett's Farm site, with many landowners , the start of HS2 construction, a proposed by- pass ( further erosion of the green belt) and new facilities the Concept Plan MUST be strong in order to avoid piecemeal development. Also because of the disruption of HS2 building must not start until after the completion of this major project.
Other issues include, increased pollution, loss of natural habitat for wild life and the loss of the rural aspect

Support

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9268

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: IM Land

Agent: Barton Willmore Planning

Representation Summary:

It is noted that there are 'multiple and complex land assembly' issues as Barratt's Farm. The Council should evidence that the Site is deliverable, available and achievable, and the timeframe for this delivery. This will ensure that any proposed housing trajectory will be accurate and achievable

Full text:

See Letters

Attachments:

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9286

Received: 20/03/2019

Respondent: L&Q Estates and Barratt David Wilson Homes

Agent: Avison Young

Representation Summary:

To summarise our position, the land at Barratt's Farm performs a more important role in terms of Green Belt function than at Grange Farm.
Site selection step 1- We consider, given our comments above and detailed analysis provided at Appendix 2, that whilst Barratt's Farm has been categorised as a 'yellow' site it should more appropriated have be defined as a 'blue site 6' and that Grange Farm, in contrast should have been categorised as a 'yellow site 5'.
Our review of the SA report in January 2017 indicates that Grange Farm would have less significant effects than Barratt's Farm

Full text:

see attached document

Comment

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9306

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Spitfire Bespoke Homes

Agent: Ridge and Partners LLP

Representation Summary:

Spitfire does not contest the principle of an allocation being made. It does however contest that based on the current site boundaries, the number of dwellings is too high when proper consideration is given to its constraints including its sensitivity in relation the Green Belt and listed buildings. Proposal for high density development along by-pass route is out of character, will create urbanising effect and result in poor quality environment. Site has complex ownerships and uncertain delivery. Allocation should be extended to include Sites 101 and 102 and range of builders will help delivery.

Full text:

See Letter

Attachments:

Comment

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9422

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Mrs Elizabeth Timperley-Preece

Representation Summary:

There should be no development in Balsall common before appropriate access and the careful management of speed, traffic and parking problems on Balsall Common roads have been assessed. Traffic calming measures on Meeting House Lane ineffective and safety at risk with no pavements.
Developments should definitely be small in size overall and within small clusters of housing that are not identical. We don't want Balsall Common to look like a mini version of Milton Keynes or for developments to create a suburban sprawl.

Full text:

Please find below my feedback on the Solihull MBC Local Plan Consultation.
Comments on Site 1 - Barrett's Farm Development

I would like to emphasise the importance of considering appropriate access and the careful management of speed, traffic and parking problems on Balsall Common roads before any further development in and around the village proceeds, particularly at Barrett's Farm.

Since I moved to Balsall Common three years ago, I have been shocked and worried by the significant increases in the volume, acceleration and speed of traffic on Meeting House Lane and Station Road.

The so-called traffic calming measures on my road are completely useless, especially from Blessed Robert Grissold to the shop end of Meeting House Lane. The speed bumps are almost completely flat (please see attached photographs) and do nothing to slow the speed of cars racing to and from the village centre or using my road as a 'rat run' through Balsall Common. In fact, traffic accelerates on this part of the road, I think because drivers seem to want to drive as fast as they can going into or coming out of the slalom, where they know they will be forced to slow down for a short period.

In the last two years, two of my cats have been hit by cars and killed on Meeting House Lane and Station Road. This has been incredibly upsetting and quite a shocking statistic when you consider that I have had many cats as part of my family for 33 years in various locations around the country (including on a road off the A38 leading into Bristol city centre) and never experienced any of them being involved in accidents until I moved to Balsall Common. I am so concerned about the safety of animals on my road that I have felt compelled to ask my parents to look after my remaining cat at their house in another part of the West Midlands.

This may not be considered a big issue to people who are not animal lovers but I can assure you that it is a great source of distress to me and others in Balsall Common who care about animals. I would hope, however, that everyone in Balsall Common and at SMBC will care about the safety of the many Balsall parish runners, dog walkers, children walking to and from school, and various others that use Meeting House Lane to walk down every day, often in the middle of the road because of the lack of any/proper pavements in many places on the road.

Recently, I was driving very slowly down my road and still had to swerve to avoid runners using one side of the road and a parent with a child in a pushchair on the other side of the road (where there are no pavements). This sort of incident is a frequent occurrence. If I was one of the people that use my road to speed down as a cut through, I think that there could easily have been an accident. I am saddened that my elderly neighbour is afraid to walk down our road to go and see her friend because of this problem with traffic and lack of proper pavements/traffic calming.

The point that I am making is that the current speed and volume of traffic is untenable and we need SMBC to do something about it before considering any further developments in Balsall Common, including development at Barrett's Farm. It would be irresponsible and dangerous to do anything else.

My strong recommendation and plea is that SMBC considers the following:
* Blocking off Meeting House Lane to vehicular traffic, either at the village end (where the new shared space is proposed to start) or after the Catholic Church so that, in effect, it becomes two cul-de-sacs for vehicles. If the latter option was taken, one end of the road could be used for access to the tennis club and the other for the church, making it a fair distribution of traffic. This would prevent people inside and outside of the village using it as a rat run. I have been quite frustrated to learn from two colleagues at work who do not live in Balsall Common that their live satellite navigation software directs them to come down Meeting House Lane when driving in/through the village (e.g. from the motorway to the University of Warwick, and when driving from the University of Warwick to the Indian restaurant on the Kenilworth Road).
* Making the speed limit on Meeting House Lane and Station Road 20 miles per hour and installing proper traffic calming measures (e.g. more aggressive speed bumps, more slaloms, one way traffic etc).
Comments on infrastucture required to support additional housing in Balsall Common
I definitely support redeveloping the village centre but I would ask that the measures proposed above (regarding speeding on Station Road and Meeting House Lane) are implemented first so that more and more people don't use Meeting House Lane as a short cut to the village centre or to park on during any disruption when the redevelopment is happening. I would also support a bypass being created and routed to the Barrett's Farm development, should this go ahead.

I currently experience significant problems with village shoppers parking on the double yellow lines near my house, on the single yellow lines during restricted periods, on the pavement and across my drive. This means that I would certainly welcome improved parking in the village but I would also implore Balsall Parish Council and SMBC to put up signage for the existing car park behind Tesco. Visitors and newcomers to the village often do not know the car park is there. I would also ask that SMBC sends parking enforcement officers to Balsall Common on a regular basis to encourage drivers to start parking legally, safely and considerately when accessing the village centre.

I definitely support the creation of a bypass to help deal with the significant problem of commuters from outside of Balsall Common using the village as a short cut instead of local A roads and motorways.

I would also like to see an additional school being provided. I would make a suggestion that this could be a Catholic primary school given that there is a thriving Catholic community in Balsall Common with the parish church very close to the proposed Barrett's Farm development, the nearest Catholic primary school in the Solihull MBC area is over three miles away and the Council cut the bus service provided to this school.

There definitely needs to be a more regular and later running bus service in Balsall Common. I would also like to see more regular and later running train services and a larger car park at the train station. The station and roads near the station cannot cope with existing demand for parking, let alone if there are over 1000 more homes in the area.

I am keen to see many more signposted public footpaths and walking routes, as well as cycle paths and more pedestrian crossings. I would like to see the Kenilworth Greenway extended and access improved so that people in the village can more easily and more safely cycle to areas like Kenilworth, Berkswell, the University of Warwick, Knowle, Barston etc. It's very sad that it's not very easy to access the greenway in certain parts (e.g. having to haul a bike over a stile). I'm also keen to see safer pedestrian routes in and around the village to encourage more people to walk to the village centre.

Comments on the selection of sites in the green belt
I support a boundary for village development and protection of the green belt. I would like to see this policy strengthened to emphasise a commitment to always using brownfield sites or previously developed green belt sites when these are available in the area. The policies of a Conservative council should reflect the commitments of the West Midlands Mayor and the Government to protect the green belt.

Comments on the overall amount of housing being proposed for Balsall Common
I am still dismayed by the fact that the village of Balsall Common is one of few areas - and one of even fewer small communities - being expected to shoulder the brunt of the burden of additional housing in Solihull, and that the number has increased despite many residents objecting to the previous level of housing proposed in previous consultations. Surely there should be a more even distribution across the borough and all areas should be expected to take a reasonable share of additional housing, taking into account their current size and character and the impact that development will have? I think it is very sad that a village in a beautiful area is being turned into a town when there are other areas of the borough unaffected, and when we are already having to deal with HS2.

Comments on the timing of development and HS2
I would implore SMBC to ensure that large scale housing developments do not begin until after HS2 is completed. To do anything else would be to destroy Balsall Common and make the lives of people living here a misery for years.

Comments on the type and style of development
It is vital to retain the rural feel and character of Balsall Common if it is to remain a desirable place to live. That's the reason that many people like me choose to live here.

It's vital that natural habitats, wildlife and biodiversity are protected to highest level possible and that developers are forced to take their responsibilities in this seriously. The nature in and around Balsall Common is one of the village's most attractive qualities and I often enjoy walking the public footpaths in and around Barrett's Farm - it's important that natural features of any development site are retained and protected.

Developments should definitely be small in size overall and within small clusters of housing that are not identical. We don't want Balsall Common to look like a mini version of Milton Keynes or for developments to create a suburban sprawl.

Attachments:

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9535

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Richard Lloyd

Representation Summary:

Site selection is based on deeply flawed Green Belt and Accessibility analyses, skewed to secure a dividend from the proposed housing to support the proposed by-pass.
Expansion further into green belt invalidates assessments, no defensible green belt boundaries and is higher performing green belt, particularly for preventing settlements from merging.
Value for agriculture, environment, recreation underestimated, with poor housing yield due to need for mitigation. Fails to take account of visibility of heritage assets from south.
Proposed public open space in least accessible location, should be adjacent existing housing to mitigate impact.
Blocks of different densities inappropriate, should be inter-mixing and gradation.
Retention of mature trees should be integrated into design.
Poorly accessible by public transport and road, remote from employment areas.

Full text:

see letter

Attachments:

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9554

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Richard Cobb Planning

Representation Summary:

No,this site is adjacent to both HS2 and the new by pass and both of those should be developed first before any new housing is allocated for the site.

Full text:

Please find attached a response to various aspects of the supplementary consultation

Attachments:

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9589

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Berkswell Parish Council

Representation Summary:

Site selection criteria not applied correctly as large part is higher performing within BA4 in GBA and should be priority 7 (not 5) in Step 1, unlikely allocation. Will reduce gap between Balsall Common and Burton Green/Coventry already compromised by National Grid site and line of HS2. Likely that Site 1 performs better than GBA RP51 to north-west of settlement. Would contravene purposes of green belt.
Concept masterplan
Support medium density closer to existing homes, inclusion of public green space/identification of ecological areas. However, ignores/contrary to emerging NDP as fails to locate green space between existing and new housing, proposes access from existing residential roads when not required, flood plain should not be included as green space as not accessible for much of year, and increase in site area not reflected in capacity.
Unclear why corridor adjacent HS2 excluded from masterplan as paragraph 103 indicates Barratt's Farm to be phased later in Plan period. Should be medium/high density as building to BS standards will ensure noise levels within WHO guidelines.

Full text:

See details in attached letter
Berkswell Parish Council considers that the issues are important and worthy of deep consideration with an honest attempt by SMBC to conduct a suitable and sufficient review of the draft plan proposals.

Attachments:

Comment

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9601

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Greenlight Developments

Representation Summary:

Support allocation in principle.
Concept masterplans:
Objects to identification of western part of Site 1 r/o Meeting House Lane as "area of significant ecological value" as misguided. Clear that this neglected grassland does not comprise a species compliment which would enable a classification as species rich or of existing high ecological value (see attached ecology report).
Support Pegasus Masterplan which shows land as developable with access off Meeting House Lane and should be used by SMBC.
Greenlight is collaborating with majority landowner and site could deliver c60 dwellings or care village of c150 with independent access off Meeting House Lane.

Full text:

See attached documents

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9745

Received: 14/03/2019

Respondent: Hannelore Lloyd

Representation Summary:

Detrimental effect on the existing houses near the new estate and would means a huge increase in the number of vehicles on the road with resulting pollution. the proposed new housing development would almost double the size of the village and this combined with the construction of HS2 and the proposed bypass would change the character of the village.

Full text:

See Letter

Attachments:

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9832

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Mr James Hamilton

Representation Summary:

Appreciates the need for additional housing
Careful thought must be given to the preservation of the Meriden Gap - once land is released from the GB it cannot be reclaimed

Concept masterplans: states an intention to develop a tract of open space running through the majority of Barratt's Farm to achieve the 'Riddings Hill' type of development. The proposed 'by-pass' runs right through the middle of this lessening it's recreational use. They do not supply sufficient evidence to make a clear assessment as a resident
suggests that any building work should be kept on hold until HS2 construction is complete

Full text:

To whom it may concern,

I wish to respond to SMBC's Draft Local Plan and, in particular, to the section on their intentions for Balsall Common - Barratt's Farm development.

I appreciate the need for additional housing in the borough and that Balsall Common will be expected to accomodate it's fair share of these. However, careful thought must be given to the preservation of the Green Belt in the Meriden gap to prevent further urban sprawl narrowing the areas of open land between Coventry, Solihull and Birmingham.

This is particularly an issue in the proposals for Site 1 - Barratt's Farm. Paragraph 96 of the Draft Plan states that the planned developments will enhance the Green Belt. How can this be the case when Barratt's Farm is the narrowest point of the Meriden Gap - only just over a mile wide at this point. Coventry have already made plans to build up to the Solihull Borough Boundary in Berkswell whilst Warwickshire are already building additional housing at Burton Green. SMBC's plans will further erode the Meriden Gap. Once land is released from the Green Belt (Paragraph 97) it can never be reclaimed and the benefit of the Meriden Gap will be lost for ever. SMBC's plan suggests the need for a strong defensible eastern boundary to the Green Belt which in effect narrows it. There are alternative sites for building rather than narrowing the gap at this point. Section 15 and Paragraph 405 for example show Sites - No.76 and No.212 at Cornets End Lane which could provide a new settlement without narrowing down the Meriden Gap.

Interestingly, there is no mention of the emerging Neighbourhood Development Plan for Berkswell - something we have worked hard on to maintain and preserve the rural character of this area. Meriden's NDP and Hampton-in-Arden's NDP have been taken into consideration but not Berkswell's. Why not? The Riddings development is a prime example of how housing can be built so that rural character can be kept and the resulting traffic impact can be minimized by thoughtful road planning. The open park spaces are a great (and vital) amenity which are well used and bring together older and newer housing areas and people.

Relating to Paragraph 95 - The Concept Master Plan states an intention to develop a tract of open space running through the majority of Barratt's Farm to achieve the 'Riddings Hill' type of development. There doesn't appear to be clear evidence in the plan that this will be the case. The 'low density housing' proposals and the 'potential area for development' on the 'SMBC's Illustrative Emerging Concept Plan' (page 14) will completely fill the area between older and new housing - nothing like the exemplary Riddings Hill development. The proposed 'by-pass' runs right through the middle of this 'Tract of Open Land' too lessening it's recreational use. Unavoidable perhaps - more open parkland could be included in the development area to the west of the bypass to offset this.

Relating to Paragraph 95 - The Concept Master Plan also states the intention of incorporating the long-established use of playing field/recreational space into the broader aspect of informal and formal recreational facilities. Why then, for the Barratt's Farm proposal, has it earmarked the playing field behind the Catholic Church on Meeting House Lane as and area for 'low density housing'? On a personal note, this field (Very recently the Catholic Church has fenced it off) has been extensively used, for many years, by village residents for recreational activities - football, etc. I have lived in Balsall Common since 1996 (23 years) - my children (and many other local children) have grown up using and enjoying it. A real worry for me is that if the low density housing were to be built on the playing field, where would the access point to the site be. Suggestions I have heard show access through Oxhayes Close. This would be highly dangerous both for vehicles, pedestrians and residents. The junction between Oxhayes Close and Meeting House Lane has a very restricted line of sight making it extremely unsuitable for an increase in traffic. Detailed traffic analysis would need to be done on the junction?

Looking at the emerging concept plan for Barrett's Farm, it is insufficiently developed to enable a clear assessment to be made by myself as a resident. I find it difficult to fully assess it's impact and I have many concerns which it fails to address. I suggest that it is essential that any building work should be kept on hold until HS2 construction in the area is complete and the major access points (Station Road and Waste Lane) to the bypass constructed. With the massive disruption HS2 is likely to bring to this area it should be possible for SMBC to prioritize building in other areas within the Borough before development here. Any piecemeal development of Barratt's Farm must be avoided until a stronger concept plan for the whole site is in place.

It would make sense for all development on Barrett's Farm to only use access points onto the proposed bypass. Matching the Riddings Hill development and routing the bulk of additional traffic away from the con-jested Village Centre.

If the whole area proposed to be released from the Green Belt were to be developed fully it could result in over 2000 homes (stated in the SMBC 2013 Local Plan) being built on Barrett's Farm alone. A huge increase in cars in the village and overwhelming pressure on village infrastructure not to mention pollution worries.

Enhancements to the Village Centre are mentioned in the Plan but a thorough analysis of the impact of new housing on the centre and village as a whole needs to be undertaken to look at the effect of increasing the population of our village by 50% before committing to additional housing.

Finally, what is SMBC's justification for selecting Balsall Common for much of the Council's housing needs?

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9847

Received: 14/03/2019

Respondent: D A Walker

Representation Summary:

Objection to building on good farm land and green belt, and to almost doubling in size of development. If the proposed development were to go ahead all access must be from the new bypass leaving the character of Meeting House Lane as it is.

Full text:

See Letter

Attachments:

Comment

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9857

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Historic England- West Midlands Region

Representation Summary:

A Heritage Impact Assessment of this proposed allocation has been commissioned by the Council. This evidence will provide consideration of the site's suitability in principle and, without prejudice, an appropriate design response to satisfy national policy and legislation in relation to the historic environment and the delivery of sustainable development.
Acknowledge the merit of the SMBC Draft Concept Masterplanning exercise and how the Council considers potential future development might respond to the affected heritage assets.
Note that the Council considers there are shortcomings with the Developers Proposal and we attach limited weight to this as a potential acceptable suggestion.

Full text:

see attached document

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9900

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Debbie Wylde

Representation Summary:

Destruction of a lovely site that acts as a wonderful peaceful buffer to the increasingly busy bustle of the roads around the village.
Site has no sensible and safe access points for the number of vehicles which will be entering and exiting the site.
Development on the Catholic Church field with access via Oxhayes Close is irresponsible and unfair to residents.
No proper thought given to how the village will cope with such a massive injection of residents and their vehicles into a village with already over loaded and busy roads.

Full text:

I am writing again to express how strongly I object to the current plans for the so called future development of Balsall Common and in particular the Barrett's Farm plans. I feel completely let down by SMBC.
We currently live in Oxhayes Close and moved here 16 years ago attracted by the situation of this peaceful cul de sac which is nestled on the edge of a beautiful swathe of green belt. For the last 16 years my family and I have enjoyed walking our dogs along the public footpaths through the beautiful fields that make up the Barrett's farm site. We walk there weekly and often daily in the summer months. I can't express how saddened and angry we all feel at the proposed destruction of this lovely site that acts as such a wonderful peaceful buffer to the increasingly busy bustle of the roads around the village.
I cannot see the sense of locating so many houses and a school on a site which has no sensible and safe access points for the number of vehicles which will be entering and exiting the site.
I also understand that there are plans to build on the Catholic Church field and access this plot via Oxhayes Close. This idea is irresponsible and completely unfair on the residents of this cul de sac. The road isn't wide enough and along with the sharp bend and the fact that many residents park on the pavements makes this a dangerous and impractical idea.
I feel no proper thought has been given to how the village will cope with such a massive injection of residents and their motor vehicles into a village with already over loaded and busy roads.
Sadly I feel that these current proposals in the development plan will be ratified by SMBC regardless of any opinion and emotional appeals expressed by concerned residents. I feel this consultation process is a 'box ticking' exercise and the village has been completely let down by its county council.

Comment

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9903

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Generator (Balsall) & Minton

Agent: DS Planning

Representation Summary:

Doubts about the likelihood of comprehensive development and deliverability of some of the proposed allocations particularly when complex land assembly issues are highlighted. This is particularly relevant to Site 1.
No certainty over the provision of HS2 and the Balsall Common By-pass and as such there are doubts over the provision of a firm eastern Green Belt boundary, without which, as acknowledged in the site assessment that the site would result in an indefensible Green Belt boundary. Some of the site is within the highest performing parcel in the Green Belt Assessment but not referenced in the site assessment.

Full text:

This is the response of Generator Group and Minton to the supplementary
consultation by Solihull Council on the Solihull Draft Local Plan January 2019. The
purpose of the response is to comment on the draft Plan and promote the site on land adj Harpers Field, Kenilworth Road Balsall Common for inclusion as a housing
allocation within the Plan. The response is by question order. Whilst we have
responded to each question, the detailed points in relation to our site are set out under question 39 and your attention is specifically drawn to this part of the response. It should be noted the site is developer owned and delivery of the site can therefore come forward early in the plan period

Comment

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9951

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Rosconn Stategic Land

Agent: DS Planning

Representation Summary:

Doubts about the likelihood of comprehensive development and deliverability of some of the proposed allocations particularly when complex land assembly issues are highlighted. This is particularly relevant to Site 1.
No certainty over the provision of HS2 and the Balsall Common By-pass and as such there are doubts over the provision of a firm eastern Green Belt boundary, without which, as acknowledged in the site assessment that the site would result in an indefensible Green Belt boundary. Some of the site is within the highest performing parcel in the Green Belt Assessment but not referenced in the site assessment.

Full text:

This is the response of Rosconn Strategic Land to the supplementary consultation by
Solihull Council on the Solihull Draft Local Plan January 2019. The purpose of the
response is to comment the draft Plan and promote three sites for inclusion as
housing allocations within the plan. The response is by question order.
The 3 sites are:
Land at Three Maypoles Farm Shirley
Land at r/o 2214 Stratford Road Hockley Heath
Land adj 161 Lugtrout Lane Solihull

The responses on the three sites to the Solihull Draft Local Plan 2016 consultation
are attached and which highlight the reasons why the sites should be allocations
within the Local Plan.

This document should also be read in conjunction with the Ecology Report and
Heritage Assessment in relation to land adj to 161 Lugtrout Lane, Solihull.
Your attention is also drawn to the attached Masterplan for land r/o 2214 Stratford
Road Hockley Heath.

Not withstanding that this is an informal consultation we consider that the document
should be accompanied by an up to date SA.

Comment

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 9991

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Stonewater

Agent: DS Planning

Representation Summary:

Doubts about the likelihood of comprehensive development and deliverability of some of the proposed allocations particularly when complex land assembly issues are highlighted. This is particularly relevant to Site 1.
No certainty over the provision of HS2 and the Balsall Common By-pass and as such there are doubts over the provision of a firm eastern Green Belt boundary, without which, as acknowledged in the site assessment that the site would result in an indefensible Green Belt boundary. Some of the site is within the highest performing parcel in the Green Belt Assessment but not referenced in the site assessment.

Full text:

This is the response of Stonewater to the supplementary consultation by Solihull
Council on the Solihull Draft Local Plan January 2019. The purpose of the response is
to comment the draft Plan and promote the site at the Firs Maxstoke Lane (west of
Meriden proposed allocation site 10) for inclusion as a housing allocation within the
Plan. The response is by question order.
The original response to the Solihull Draft Local Plan 2016 consultation is also
attached which highlights the reasons why the site should be an allocation within the
Local Plan (Site Ref 137).

see detailed comment in attached letter

Comment

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 10031

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Mr T Khan

Agent: DS Planning

Representation Summary:

Doubts about the likelihood of comprehensive development and deliverability of some of the proposed allocations particularly when complex land assembly issues are highlighted. This is particularly relevant to Site 1.
No certainty over the provision of HS2 and the Balsall Common By-pass and as such there are doubts over the provision of a firm eastern Green Belt boundary, without which, as acknowledged in the site assessment that the site would result in an indefensible Green Belt boundary. Some of the site is within the highest performing parcel in the Green Belt Assessment but not referenced in the site assessment.

Full text:

This is the response of Mr Taj Khan, Sid Kelly and John Green to the supplementary
consultation by Solihull Council on the Solihull Draft Local Plan January 2019. The
purpose of the response is to comment on the draft Plan and promote the site at 15,
59, & 61 Jacobean Lane Knowle for inclusion as a housing allocation within the Plan
and land north of Jacobean Lane being removed from the Green Belt and to support
the removal of land from the Green Belt to rectify anomalies and for consistency.
See detail response in attached letter and appendices

Comment

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 10072

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Minton (CdeB) Ltd

Agent: DS Planning

Representation Summary:

Doubts about the likelihood of comprehensive development and deliverability of some of the proposed allocations particularly when complex land assembly issues are highlighted. This is particularly relevant to Site 1.
No certainty over the provision of HS2 and the Balsall Common By-pass and as such there are doubts over the provision of a firm eastern Green Belt boundary, without which, as acknowledged in the site assessment that the site would result in an indefensible Green Belt boundary. Some of the site is within the highest performing parcel in the Green Belt Assessment but not referenced in the site assessment.

Full text:

This is the response of Minton to the supplementary consultation by Solihull Council
on the Solihull Draft Local Plan January 2019. The purpose of the response is to
comment the draft Plan and promote the site at Oak Farm Catherine de Barnes for
inclusion as a housing allocation within the Plan. The response is by question order.
The original response to the Solihull Draft Local Plan 2016 consultation is also
attached which highlights the reasons why the full Oak Farm site should be an
allocation within the Local Plan. We have also carried out our own Green Belt
Assessment a copy of which is attached

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 10118

Received: 15/03/2019

Respondent: Mr David Varley

Representation Summary:

Not suitable as narrowest part of Meriden Gap, too may houses on single site and air/noise pollution likely to exceed standards
Can't be developed until bypass built, so will not contribute to 5 year supply, so smaller sites required. Access from Meeting House Lane unacceptable as would change its character/quality and be unsafe.
Multiple ownership makes comprehensive development and phasing challenging. Danger that piecemeal development will involve access from unsuitable residential roads.
Concept masterplan does not show green space between existing homes and new development contrary to Neighbourhood Plan.

Full text:

see attached letter

Attachments:

Comment

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 10206

Received: 11/03/2019

Respondent: Burton Green Parish Council

Representation Summary:

Burton Green Parish Council recognises the difficulties Solihull faces in meeting its housing targets but is disappointed that the development at Barrett's Farm is such a large development of 900 houses. However, the Council is pleased that you have decided to phase this development later.

Full text:

RESPONSE OF THE BURTON GREEN PARISH COUNCIL TO THE SOLIHULL DRAFT LOCAL PLAN SUPPLEMENTARY CONSULTATION 2019
As a neighbouring Parish Council, we are very sensitive to the changes taking place in Berkswell and Balsall Common. Consequently councillors responded to the Draft Local Plan of 2016. We showed our concerns for the loss of Green Belt and the incursions into the Meriden Gap but, above all, we were worried about the impact of traffic on Burton Green. The building of 220 houses at Windmill Lane had serious implications for traffic and road safety on Hob Lane whilst the 900 houses at Barratt's Farm put more pressure on the junction between Hodgetts Lane and Waste Lane.
The publication of the Draft Local Plan Supplementary Consultation has intensified our concerns about Hob Lane. As you well know Solihull Highways is responsible for Hob Lane even though some of the land and properties, including our Primary School, are within Warwick District and the Parish Council of Burton Green. It is a narrow, winding lane with dangerous bends. There have been serious accidents on the bends and the lane is not gritted. There is, perhaps, a case already for improvements to Hob Lane and certainly the early construction works at Red Lane by Cala Homes have highlighted the problems. Verges have been torn apart and School safety compromised by construction traffic.
The decision to create a by-pass from Catchems Corner, crossing Hob Lane and Waste Lane, before entering the Barratt's Farm development has serious implications for Hob Lane. It is almost inevitable that, in addition to some of the residents at Windmill Lane, many more will leave the by-pass at Hob Lane to approach the University and the Science Park through Burton Green. Councillors note that the by-pass will be "pursued in a timely manner" but how will Solihull Council address the issue of Hob Lane? Hopefully the Metropolitan Authority will show foresight, making sure that the proper infrastructure is in place before new houses are built but councillors do worry that the concerns of Burton Green will be a low priority against the demands of Solihull's own constituents.
The Parish Council recognises the difficulties Solihull faces in meeting its housing targets but we are disappointed that the development at Barrett's Farm is such a large development of 900 houses. However we are pleased that you have decided to phase this development later. Hopefully Solihull Councillors will show the same foresight with Hob Lane making sure that changes are made right at the beginning of the process. If not, of course, motorists will be put in danger.

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 10245

Received: 12/03/2019

Respondent: Mr William Cairns

Representation Summary:

Major intrusion into green belt and Meriden Gap and narrows gap between settlement and Coventry for which exceptional circumstances not demonstrated. Selection on grounds that does not perform well in Green Belt Assessment flawed.
Concept Masterplan
Emerging Masterplan is sketchy and fails to address concerns of residents abutting site. Results in significant loss of access to green belt and recreation field. Design approach for Riddings Hill development should be mirrored, with green space accommodating recreational sport and park with wildlife habitats for use by existing and new residents.

Full text:

This is my response to the above document. I have presented my comments it in the order of the sections and paragraphs in the Draft. I have restricted my comments to those sections that particularly relate to me.
see letter for full text

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 10281

Received: 07/03/2019

Respondent: The Ramblers, warwickshire Area

Representation Summary:

Whilst having no comments to make on the other smaller housing allocation sites in Balsall Common, Warwickshire Ramblers object to the Barretts Farm Allocation on Green Belt, footpath and over-development grounds.

Full text:

COMMENT FROM THE RAMBLERS - WARWICKSHIRE AREA

Balsall Common By-pass: Warwickshire Ramblers are extremely concerned about this so called 'By-Pass'. It should not be seen as just a By-Pass for Balsall Common, but for what it really is - part of a far wider damaging scheme for a proposed A46/A452 Link Road from Balsall Common to the Stoneleigh Interchange on the A46; with a possible link to the A45 from Burton Green. The majority of both proposed routes would be within Solihull and between them would cut some 15 or so Public Rights of Way (PROWs) in the Borough. The route proposed for this Link Road closely follows the line of HS2 and would impact on both the environmental mitigations already hard won from HS2 Ltd and the Kenilworth Greenway - with the Greenway becoming trapped between HS2 and the new 'By-Pass'!

It is obvious that this Link Road would be designed as a fast through commuting route and that attempting to cross it at grade would be extremely hazardous - for, while PROW crossings on that portion of the Link Road falling within Warwickshire would be protected by the policy protecting PROW crossings at grade on fast new roads contained in the Warwickshire County Council Rights of Way Improvement Plan (ROWIP), your SMBC ROWIP provides no such protection for pedestrians!

As this Link Road will inflict such immense damage on an already beleaguered stretch of countryside, Warwickshire Ramblers will strongly oppose any planning application to construct it.

Concept Master Plans: While having no comments to make on the other smaller housing allocation sites in Balsall Common, Warwickshire Ramblers do feel that the Barretts Farm Allocation is a development too far! From our own point of view the fact that the Barretts Farm Site would obliterate or subsume within urban development some 2.5 kl of public footpaths is sufficient cause for deep concern - but, coupled with the fact that by your own admission the proposed Balsall Common 'By-Pass' would be expected to provide the main vehicular access into the Barratt's Farm development, then we feel that this really is a drastic over-development of poor old Balsall Common, and must express our opposition to the development of the Barretts Farm Site!

Green Belt Enhancements: No possible enhancements would be able to compensate in the slightest for the extreme damage that taking Barretts Farm out of the Green Belt (with the resulting over-expansion of Balsall Common) will cause. As for 'an opportunity to link up with the Greenway', the rural setting of the Greenway will become permanently destroyed by being trapped between HS2 and the A46/A452 Link Road - a valuable green asset reduced to a mere urban cycle track!

Michael Bird
Footpath & Countryside Secretary
The Ramblers, Warwickshire Area

The Ramblers' Association is a company limited by guarantee, registered in England and Wales. Company registration number: 4458492. Registered Charity in England and Wales number: 1093577. Registered office: 2nd floor, Camelford House, 87-90 Albert Embankment, London SE1 7TW

Object

Draft Local Plan - Supplementary Consultation

Representation ID: 10290

Received: 14/03/2019

Respondent: Mr Henning Kleine

Representation Summary:

The development will take away a recreation area including the benefits for dog-walkers and joggers; it will harm the bio-diversity of the Meriden gap. Meeting House Lane unsuitable/unsafe for access. Will lead to piecemeal development in attached areas.

Full text:

I would like to express our deep concerns about Solihull Council's development plans regarding Balsall Common.

Generally we would like to point out that the government has continuously stated that green belts are to be preserved, which seems to be completely ignored by the Solihull authorities and planning departments.

We are afraid the proposed development will effect the village and its people, as there seems to be in effect hardly any coordination and structure, how this huge development shall be erected. The infrastructural requirement to integrate it into the village structure are simple not thought about sufficiently and such advance activities need to be timed and thought through. I stress that the village centre has no chance to cope with this development.

The development will take away a recreation area including the benefits for dog-walkers and joggers; it will harm the bio-diversity of the Meriden gap.

Parts of the development shall be directly linked to Meeting House Lane (i.e. lead into MHL), which constitutes a fundamental irresponsibility in regards to additional traffic and pedestrians' health and safety, as most of the lower end of Meeting House lane has no pedestrian walkway and children would be especially at risk.

The development Barretts Farm appears to suit big developers; in the attached areas small developers may piecemeal the area without any strategic planning.

There is no proper concept as to how the bypass may help the situation in the village unless also Kenilworth Road is completely restructured and be made a non-through road. In the abundance of such a concept the bypass will be a waste of money (although apparently already equipped with sufficient funds ...).

Please consider to the above and act accordingly.