Q2. Do you agree with the Borough Vision we have set out? If not why not, and what alternative would you suggest?

Showing comments and forms 91 to 120 of 135

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 2719

Received: 15/02/2017

Respondent: Michael Cooper

Representation Summary:

partial agreement with the vision, but overall not supportive of the vision as set out in the document. Concerned that development will lead to loss of green belt beteen BS and Coventry.

Full text:

Please find attached my response to your questionnaire which includes my personal concerns regarding my own land which appears to be included in the potential Barrett's Farm development but which has in fact never been offered by me for development.

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 2808

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: Catesby Estates Limited

Agent: WYG

Representation Summary:

It is considered that as drafted the Borough Vision is ambiguous and should be amended to be explicit on the aim to meet the Borough's own objectively assessed housing needs in full, as well as an adequate proportion of the shortfall arising in the wider Housing Market Area.

Full text:

see 3 separate letters
1) Land to the rear of Meriden C of E Primary School, Fillongley Road, Meriden
2) Land Hampton Lane, Solihull
3) Land Windmill Lane / Kenilworth Rd, Balsall Common

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 2853

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: CPRE Warwickshire Branch

Representation Summary:

The Borough Vision is defective.
- housing proposed would undermine the character of Solihull and reduce its rural features.
Heavy traffic levels would make journeys slow and uncomfortable
Vision should be revised to reflect the fact that Solihull is a location for employment for many who live in other local authority areas and is itself a place for people who work in Birmingham to live.
Vision should state that the Green Belt will be fully protected and that new housing will be developed where small, sustainable locations are available; large greenfield sites for new housing will generally not be permitted

Full text:

see attached documents

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 2958

Received: 14/02/2017

Respondent: Mr F J Jackson

Representation Summary:

can you provide your detailed view of how you envisage improvements to affect Berkswell/BC villages? I forecast nothing more than chaos as the population you hope to provide housing for expands uncontrollably.

Full text:

see attached letter

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 2984

Received: 14/02/2017

Respondent: Lionel Johnson

Representation Summary:

do not agree with vision
- neither provides for improving centre of BC nor how to change to cater for growing community
- already insufficient parking
- fails to note need for improvements to local facilities, services and public transport; encourage more sustainable travel patterns; improved connectivity to surrounding communities

- generic statement 'Schools will have...and grow' naive- primary school already at capacity; required growth not possible at current location
Relocation alongside other significant developments proposed

also do not agree with 'an alternative route...Kenilworth Road'. alternative route will result in loss of greenbelt; increase traffic; catalyst for additional development.

Full text:


I am responding to the Council's Draft Local Plan (DLP).

In response to Q1:

"Do you agree that we've identified the right challenges facing the Borough? If not why not? Are there any additional challenges that should be addressed?"

I believe that improving the centre of Balsall Common has failed to be recognised as an additional key challenge that Solihull Council needs to address. The current facilities within Balsall Common centre struggle to support the existing populace so could not support up to an additional 1350 houses.

In response to Q2:

"Do you agree with the Borough Vision we have set out? If not why not, and what alternative would you suggest?"

I do not agree with the vision set out. It neither provides for improving the centre of Balsall Common nor outlines how it will need to change in order to cater for the needs of a growing local community. There is already insufficient parking for the current populace. The vision for Balsall Common fails to note the need for improvements to local facilities, services and public transport which would encourage more sustainable travel patterns and improved connectivity to surrounding communities.

The inclusion of a generic statement that 'Schools will have continued to thrive and grow' appears naive. The primary school is already at capacity and the required growth will not be possible at its current location. Relocation of this facility should be considered alongside the other significant developments which have been proposed.

I also do not agree with part of the vision which describes that 'an alternative route will have been provided to relieve traffic from the Kenilworth Road'. Any such alternative route will result in a further loss of greenbelt, an increase in traffic and act as a catalyst for additional development.

In response to Q3:

"Do you agree with the spatial strategy we have set out? If not why not, and what alternative would you suggest?"

I agree with a strategy and approach where areas of previously developed land (Brownfield) are selected ahead of non-developed land (Greenfield) and areas with good public transport links are considered ahead of those with poorer public transport links.

However, I do not agree that the appropriate growth opportunities have been correctly identified within DLP paragraph 108. I do not understand why Green Belt and Greenfield sites are identified as locations where growth should be focused when there are a number of Brownfield sites (e.g. part- PDL site 240 - Land north of Balsall Common) which do not feature within LPR proposed sites. This is contrary to the guidance as set out within:

a. The strategic objectives of this document (DLP paragraph 96), and
b. "Step 1: Planning for the right homes in the right places" of the Government's "Fixing our broken housing market" white paper by "maximising the contribution from brownfield and surplus public land" (https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/590043/Fixing_our_broken_housing_market_-_housing_white_paper.pdf)

In response to Q7:

"Do you agree with Policy P2? If not why not, and what alternative would you suggest?"

I do not agree with Policy P2 as I believe the challenges facing the centre of Balsall Common in light of the proposed housing growth have failed to be recognised and its own master plan is needed. Specifically there is a need to ensure that the provision of parking in the village centre meets the needs of retailers and residents, whilst not acting as a constraint to development.

In response to Q15:

"Do you believe we are planning to build homes in the right locations? If not why not, and which locations do you believe shouldn't be included? Are there any other locations that you think should be included?"

I wish to object to the development of site 3 (Kenilworth Road, Balsall Common) and would propose that serious consideration be given to the development of site 240 (Wootton Green Lane, Balsall Common), as an alternative.

The reasons for my objection are below, based on the outcome of the investigations undertaken by the BARRAGE action group and as such the evidence and supporting information can be found in their report.

1) Balsall Common fails to meet the Council's own specified criteria for high frequency public transport and therefore is not a settlement with good accessibility. As such, the allocation of circa 20% of new housing in the Borough to Balsall Common, is in breach of SMBC's policy that "all new development should be focused in the most accessible locations".

2) Moreover it is a settlement with limited employment opportunities and therefore most people have to commute to work by car. A significant expansion will add unnecessary pressure to the road network as well adding to the carbon footprint. There are no proposed Sprint Runs to mitigate for this.

3) The proposed allocation of 3 greenfield sites in Balsall Common, when there are 14 PDL (Previously Developed Land) sites available, would strongly suggest that due consideration has not been given to these sites. As such, the "very special circumstances" to justify inappropriate development in the greenbelt have NOT been demonstrated.

4) The development of site 3, being in the south of Balsall Common, will add to the congestion hotspots on the A452 caused by northbound traffic heading to the main employment centres.

5) The development of site 3 (200 units), in addition to the two sites currently under construction on the Kenilworth Road (115 units), will inevitably cause delays to drivers trying to access the A452. As a consequence, the risk of accidents will increase as drivers attempt to exit these sites in a situation even more difficult than it is today. Windmill Lane will become even more of a "rat run".

6) Site 3 scores poorly in relation to all accessibility criteria, as defined by SMBC, apart from the Primary School. As such most journeys to the shops, medical centre and railway station will have to be by car, adding to the existing congestion and parking difficulties

7) To alter the boundaries surrounding the Crest Nicholson developments on the Kenilworth Road (sites 22 and 23), in order to develop site 3, would directly contravene National policy, as these boundaries were regarded as permanent.

8) The existence of the Berkswell Windmill (Grade II* listed building), as well as Great Crested Newts, a European protected species, has been overlooked in the Council's assessment. As the setting of this iconic landmark will be harmed, the proposal is in breach of National policy.

9) Using the same criteria as the Council to assess sites, part- PDL site 240 outperforms site 3. Given that the area is larger than site 3, this site should be re-assessed by the Council with a view to allocation instead of site 3.

10) The phasing of all 3 proposed allocations for development to take place in years 1 - 5, at the same time as HS2 and the site at Riddings Hill, will place intolerable strain on the settlement. There will be insufficient time to effectively plan for and deliver the necessary improvements to both infrastructure and facilities, which are already overstretched. In particular, the current Primary School provision is wholly inadequate. This directly contravenes SMBC's stated intent to "manage the growth."

In response to Q16

"Do you believe we have identified the infrastructure required to support these developments? If not why not? Are there any additional facilities you believe are required, if so what are they?"

No - parking facilities at Berkswell Station are already insufficient to support the current need. This results in vehicles needing to park elsewhere e.g. along Hallmeadow Road. An increase in the population would put further strain on this facility and as such I believe additional parking facilities are required.

In response to Q18

"Do you agree with the policies for improving accessibility and encouraging sustainable travel? If not why not, and what alternatives would you suggest?"

Policy 7 is only concerned with the proximity to and the frequency of bus services. A defining factor for commuters' transport mode choice is the destination or the appropriateness of the service. e.g. Whether a dwelling is within 400m of a bus stop is irrelevant if the service cannot deliver you to your destination in a timely manner.

In response to Q22

"Do you agree with the Policy P21? If not why not, and what alternatives would you suggest?"

Policy 21 does not specifically state that all CIL payments, new homes bonus or the profit on the sale of Council land for housing should be spent in the areas where the housing is built. I strongly believe that such payments received for a development should be allocated to the directly affected community.

In response to Q23

"Are there any other comments you wish to make on the Draft Local Plan?"

The proposed addition of up to 1350 houses to Balsall Common, representing a sizeable increase in population (>25%), will have a significant impact on the character of the village. It will remove the local distinctiveness of the area, characterised by its open countryside setting, sense of remoteness, distinctive fieldscapes and woodland assets. All of this is in direct conflict with the statement (DLP paragraph 86) that "the local distinctiveness of the area... ...will have been protected".

Furthermore, I support the recommendations from BARRAGE that:

1) A re-assessment is made of the appropriateness of significantly expanding Balsall Common, given its poor accessibility using public transport

2) If there is justification for significantly expanding Balsall Common, then an holistic view is taken as to where housing is best located, with due consideration to be given to the re-use of PDL sites in preference to "greenfield" as well as congestion hot spots

3) The phasing of any development must recognise the impact and disruption of HS2

4) The necessary infrastructure to support any significant expansion must be identified and planned for alongside any development

5) SMBC consults on ALL PDL SITES, which fall within or are adjacent to Balsall Common, with a view to potential allocation with immediate effect to ensure the community is fully engaged

6) Site 3 is removed from the Draft Local Plan as it is not compliant with both National and Borough planning policies and, as such, is not sustainable.

Yes

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 2994

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: Oakmoor (Sharmans Cross Road) Ltd

Agent: Cerda Planning Ltd

Representation Summary:

Agree with the vision as set out in the DLP

Full text:

see letter

Yes

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3068

Received: 16/02/2017

Respondent: Transport for the West Midlands

Representation Summary:

Welcome Vision overall.
Reference to the wider West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) Strategic Economic Plan (SEP) and meeting the aspirations of key businesses would therefore be welcomed, to help maintain Solihull's important regional and sub-regional role.

Full text:

see letter
"Overall we are very supportive of the plan and its in alignment with our Movement for Growth and SEP. But we have raised some points concerning parking policy, and more promotion of walking and cycling. "

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3137

Received: 14/02/2017

Respondent: Dr Carrie-Anne Johnson

Representation Summary:

Object to vision.
Does not provide for improving the centre of Balsall Common nor how it will need to change to cater for new development.
Fails to note the need for improvements to local facilities, services and public transport.
Naïve to state 'Schools will have continued to thrive and grow' as already at capacity.
Relocation of school should be referenced here.
Do not agree with 'an alternative route will have been provided to relieve traffic from the Kenilworth Road'. Will result in a further loss of greenbelt, an increase in traffic and act as a catalyst for additional development.

Full text:

I am responding to the Council's Draft Local Plan (DLP).

In response to Q1:

"Do you agree that we've identified the right challenges facing the Borough? If not why not? Are there any additional challenges that should be addressed?"

I believe that improving the centre of Balsall Common has failed to be recognised as an additional key challenge that Solihull Council needs to address. The current facilities within Balsall Common centre struggle to support the existing populace so could not support up to an additional 1350 houses.

In response to Q2:

"Do you agree with the Borough Vision we have set out? If not why not, and what alternative would you suggest?"

I do not agree with the vision set out. It neither provides for improving the centre of Balsall Common nor outlines how it will need to change in order to cater for the needs of a growing local community. There is already insufficient parking for the current populace. The vision for Balsall Common fails to note the need for improvements to local facilities, services and public transport which would encourage more sustainable travel patterns and improved connectivity to surrounding communities.

The inclusion of a generic statement that 'Schools will have continued to thrive and grow' appears naive. The primary school is already at capacity and the required growth will not be possible at its current location. Relocation of this facility should be considered alongside the other significant developments which have been proposed.

I also do not agree with part of the vision which describes that 'an alternative route will have been provided to relieve traffic from the Kenilworth Road'. Any such alternative route will result in a further loss of greenbelt, an increase in traffic and act as a catalyst for additional development.

In response to Q3:

"Do you agree with the spatial strategy we have set out? If not why not, and what alternative would you suggest?"

I agree with a strategy and approach where areas of previously developed land (Brownfield) are selected ahead of non-developed land (Greenfield) and areas with good public transport links are considered ahead of those with poorer public transport links.

However, I do not agree that the appropriate growth opportunities have been correctly identified within DLP paragraph 108. I do not understand why Green Belt and Greenfield sites are identified as locations where growth should be focused when there are a number of Brownfield sites (e.g.part- PDL site 240 - Land north of Balsall Common) which do not feature within LPR proposed sites. This is contrary to the guidance as set out within:

a. The strategic objectives of this document (DLP paragraph 96), and
b. "Step 1: Planning for the right homes in the right places" of the Government's "Fixing our broken housing market" white paper by "maximising the contribution from brownfield and surplus public land" (https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/590043/Fixing_our_broken_housing_market_-_housing_white_paper.pdf)

In response to Q7:

"Do you agree with Policy P2? If not why not, and what alternative would you suggest?"

I do not agree with Policy P2 as I believe the challenges facing the centre of Balsall Common in light of the proposed housing growth have failed to be recognised and its own master plan is needed. Specifically there is a need to ensure that the provision of parking in the village centre meets the needs of retailers and residents, whilst not acting as a constraint to development.

In response to Q15:

"Do you believe we are planning to build homes in the right locations? If not why not, and which locations do you believe shouldn't be included? Are there any other locations that you think should be included?"

I wish to object to the development of site 3 (Kenilworth Road, Balsall Common) and would propose that serious consideration be given to the development of site 240 (Wootton Green Lane, Balsall Common), as an alternative.

The reasons for my objection are below, based on the outcome of the investigations undertaken by the BARRAGE action group and as such the evidence and supporting information can be found in their report.

1) Balsall Common fails to meet the Council's own specified criteria for high frequency public transport and therefore is not a settlement with good accessibility. As such, the allocation of circa 20% of new housing in the Borough to Balsall Common, is in breach of SMBC's policy that "all new development should be focused in the most accessible locations".

2) Moreover it is a settlement with limited employment opportunities and therefore most people have to commute to work by car. A significant expansion will add unnecessary pressure to the road network as well adding to the carbon footprint. There are no proposed Sprint Runs to mitigate for this.

3) The proposed allocation of 3 greenfield sites in Balsall Common, when there are 14 PDL (Previously Developed Land) sites available, would strongly suggest that due consideration has not been given to these sites. As such, the "very special circumstances" to justify inappropriate development in the greenbelt have NOT been demonstrated.

4) The development of site 3, being in the south of Balsall Common, will add to the congestion hotspots on the A452 caused by northbound traffic heading to the main employment centres.

5) The development of site 3 (200 units), in addition to the two sites currently under construction on the Kenilworth Road (115 units), will inevitably cause delays to drivers trying to access the A452. As a consequence, the risk of accidents will increase as drivers attempt to exit these sites in a situation even more difficult than it is today. Windmill Lane will become even more of a "rat run".

6) Site 3 scores poorly in relation to all accessibility criteria, as defined by SMBC, apart from the Primary School. As such most journeys to the shops, medical centre and railway station will have to be by car, adding to the existing congestion and parking difficulties

7) To alter the boundaries surrounding the Crest Nicholson developments on the Kenilworth Road (sites 22 and 23), in order to develop site 3, would directly contravene National policy, as these boundaries were regarded as permanent.

8) The existence of the Berkswell Windmill (Grade II* listed building), as well as Great Crested Newts, a European protected species, has been overlooked in the Council's assessment. As the setting of this iconic landmark will be harmed, the proposal is in breach of National policy.

9) Using the same criteria as the Council to assess sites, part- PDL site 240 outperforms site 3. Given that the area is larger than site 3, this site should be re-assessed by the Council with a view to allocation instead of site 3.

10) The phasing of all 3 proposed allocations for development to take place in years 1 - 5, at the same time as HS2 and the site at Riddings Hill, will place intolerable strain on the settlement. There will be insufficient time to effectively plan for and deliver the necessary improvements to both infrastructure and facilities, which are already overstretched. In particular, the current Primary School provision is wholly inadequate. This directly contravenes SMBC's stated intent to "manage the growth."

In response to Q16

"Do you believe we have identified the infrastructure required to support these developments? If not why not? Are there any additional facilities you believe are required, if so what are they?"

No - parking facilities at Berkswell Station are already insufficient to support the current need. This results in vehicles needing to park elsewhere e.g. along Hallmeadow Road. An increase in the population would put further strain on this facility and as such I believe additional parking facilities are required.

In response to Q18

"Do you agree with the policies for improving accessibility and encouraging sustainable travel? If not why not, and what alternatives would you suggest?"

Policy 7 is only concerned with the proximity to and the frequency of bus services. A defining factor for commuters' transport mode choice is the destination or the appropriateness of the service. e.g. Whether a dwelling is within 400m of a bus stop is irrelevant if the service cannot deliver you to your destination in a timely manner.

In response to Q22

"Do you agree with the Policy P21? If not why not, and what alternatives would you suggest?"

Policy 21 does not specifically state that all CIL payments, new homes bonus or the profit on the sale of Council land for housing should be spent in the areas where the housing is built. I strongly believe that such payments received for a development should be allocated to the directly affected community.

In response to Q23

"Are there any other comments you wish to make on the Draft Local Plan?"

The proposed addition of up to 1350 houses to Balsall Common, representing a sizeable increase in population (>25%), will have a significant impact on the character of the village. It will remove the local distinctiveness of the area, characterised by its open countryside setting, sense of remoteness, distinctive fieldscapes and woodland assets. All of this is in direct conflict with the statement (DLP paragraph 86) that "the local distinctiveness of the area... ...will have been protected".

Furthermore, I support the recommendations from BARRAGE that:

1) A re-assessment is made of the appropriateness of significantly expanding Balsall Common, given its poor accessibility using public transport

2) If there is justification for significantly expanding Balsall Common, then an holistic view is taken as to where housing is best located, with due consideration to be given to the re-use of PDL sites in preference to "greenfield" as well as congestion hot spots

3) The phasing of any development must recognise the impact and disruption of HS2

4) The necessary infrastructure to support any significant expansion must be identified and planned for alongside any development

5) SMBC consults on ALL PDL SITES, which fall within or are adjacent to Balsall Common, with a view to potential allocation with immediate effect to ensure the community is fully engaged

6) Site 3 is removed from the Draft Local Plan as it is not compliant with both National and Borough planning policies and, as such, is not sustainable

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3147

Received: 15/02/2017

Respondent: Michael & Lynda Beasley

Representation Summary:

Partly support.
Written from urban perspective, does not reflect a well-balanced urban and rural vision.
Green Belt gap under threat.
Balsall Common already congested, with poor infrastructure and poor public sector connectivity.
Looks to East and South, not towards Solihull.
No consideration given to impact of JLR development at Fen End.
Bypass should be on West side.
Disproportionate housing will impact sensitive and fragile Green Belt areas.

Full text:

Response to Solihull MBC 23 question extended consultation on the draft local plan
Question 1 are the right borough challenges identified
Will the impact of Brexit have a material effect on the total number of homes needed in the Borough?
Question 2 agreement with the Borough Vision
Only In a very small part yes, but it is clearly written from an urban Solihull-centric perspective, once more bringing into disrepute the belief that Solihull successfully combines a well-balanced combined Urban and Rural vision. Looked at from a holistic position, Solihull MBC in this draft proposal will not be satisfied with following their own policies until an urban jungle is built through the most vulnerable and narrow portion of the Green Belt between Balsall Common and Coventry City.
SMBC fought a huge battle at enormous cost to preserve this piece of land from a coal mine development; why is it now prepared to sacrifice this precious 'lung' between two major city conurbations?
Balsall Common is already a congested community with poor infrastructure and very poor public sector connectivity with the local economic centres which are primarily to the East and South ie NOT Solihull and this is the way traffic flows at peak times.
Further, no consideration has been given to considering sites to the South and West of the settlement toward the considerable economic development driven by JLR at their Fen End site, where they plan to site 2,000+ engineers. Many of these people will seek homes in Balsall Common and, therefore, to reduce cross-village traffic any major development should be on the West side of the village. Similarly, if a village bypass should ever be needed then consideration should be given to siting this on the West side.
Adding the proposed disproportionate housing and its resulting population to Balsall Common in sensitive and fragile Green Belt areas will simply make the problems worse and continue the belief that SMBC will ignore its own Policies when they do not suit political goals.
Question 3 agreement with Spatial Strategy?
The approach defined for sites being appropriate for development as written looks good with the right priorities, but unfortunately they have not been adhered to in this draft plan.
Barratt's Farm land is Greenfield land not Brownfield land and has significant drain off issues. Additionally, as stressed above, the village is virtually bereft of effective public transport.
The demolition of the Meriden Gap Green Belt and its impact on the local ecology of the green fields, ancient hedge rows and trees will directly affect the existing local residents and families who extensively use the area and its many crisscrossing footpaths for open air exercise and leisure activities. The additional traffic emanating from such a large increase in housing will add to the air pollution caused by poor control of the take-off and landing heights from Birmingham Airport, especially the northern turn over the settlement.
If this land is built on, then the drain off problem identified above will represent a risk to local adjoining properties to the north and south.
This area is already under severe threat of noise and Greenbelt erosion from HS2.
Piling in some 800 homes with shops, a school and other amenities with poor access to existing roads is a planning nightmare.
The site between Windmill Lane and the A452 Kenilworth Road to the South of the settlement is broadly a Brownfield site, BUT it is also proposed for a density of housing which is too high. This will generate traffic onto the narrow Windmill Lane that has poor visibility junctions at each end, or onto the A452 Trunk road with difficult North and South junctions.
Question 7 regarding sustainable Economic Development?
Good principles, but again not seriously considered in the draft plan with no consideration of the disproportionate building of houses on an already congested and ill planned village centre.
Question11 policy P2 providing homes for all
The total proposed housing numbers are grossly disproportionate to the size of the existing community and will have a very significant detrimental impact on the size, shape, character and environment of Balsall Common as a Rural Village. It is also noticed that while mention is made of affordable homes, no mention is made of homes for older members of the community.
Question 15 appropriateness of draft proposed sites.
As mentioned throughout this response, Solihull MBC have failed to follow their own Policies in establishing the appropriateness of the chosen sites and yet proposals for a new village on a brown field site development to the north of the region have been ignored. This is also true of potential sites to the South/East of Solihull toward Hampton in Arden and Catherin de Barnes, these being closer to the proposed new High Speed HS2 interchange.
Question 16 completeness of required supporting infrastructure to complement the proposed draft development?
While Doctors and Schooling infrastructure is mentioned, no mention is made of shopping, banking etc and banks are currently withdrawing from Balsall Common. A lack of action on the site to the rear of the Co-op shop has caused it to be isolated from other retail outlets and has exacerbated the lack of any sense of a cohesive village centre. Car parking facilities in the Village are very limited and in some areas dangerous.
Question18 sustainable Travel
Good ideals but difficult to execute when public transport, apart from Birmingham focused rail, is very, very poor in the area.
Question 22 Delivery
CIL payments for local development should be focussed in the local area for locally requested and agreed infrastructure improvements.
Question 23 Any other comment
No explanation has been given to the fact that a grossly disproportionate number of houses are proposed to be built in Balsall Common in important and sensitive Green Belt land compared with elsewhere in Solihull Borough. Areas such as Dorridge, Knowle, Chadwick End and Fen End to the South are in less sensitive and less pressured areas of Green Belt land.
There is a very strong perception in the Balsall Common area that Solihull MBC have abandoned the Greenbelt and consciously discarded their own policies and values and have consequently lost what trust they had as a result.
It also appears from the draft local development plan consultation information booklet that land belonging to Lynda Beasley (Wyer) and Michael Cooper has been included in the proposed Barratt's Farm development. We assume this error will be rectified. In the event this development does proceed we would expect a barrier to be put in place to protect livestock on the above mentioned fields.

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3169

Received: 16/02/2017

Respondent: Hampton-in-Arden Parish Council and Catherine-de-Barnes Residents' Association

Representation Summary:

Paragraph 83 refers to local facilities and services readily accessible on foot and bicycle, though bus services in Hampton have been withdrawn and no safe cycle route exists beyond Catherine de Barnes. The claims about continuing to protect the green belt and environment is not based on fact. Welcome commitment to secure the reclamation of the former ammunition depot in Hampton.

Full text:

see attached letter

Yes

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3187

Received: 15/02/2017

Respondent: Mr Karl Peter Childs

Representation Summary:

Broadly agree with Vision, but difficult to see how parts will be delivered, especially Shirley.
Para. 74 - Ignores erosion of Green Belt and threat of urban sprawl.
Para. 79 - Difficult to see how leafy suburban character can be be retained if transport infrastructure is updated to cope with existing and additional development.

Full text:

see written response attached

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3245

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: Hampton-in-Arden Society

Representation Summary:

Paragraph 83 refers to local facilities and services readily accessible on foot and bicycle, though bus services in Hampton have been withdrawn and no safe cycle route exists beyond Catherine de Barnes. The claims about continuing to protect the green belt and environment is not based on fact. Welcome commitment to secure the reclamation of the former ammunition depot in Hampton.

Full text:

Please find attached the response to the review of the Draft Local Plan from the Hampton-in-Arden Society. Representatives of the Society have attended a number of briefing events together with members of the Parish Council and this is therefore a joint response.

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3281

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: J Maddocks & family

Agent: Nigel Gough Associates

Representation Summary:

Support Vision linking future economic success with key economic assets at UK Central Hub.
Development at Dickens Heath will meet aims of Para. 83.
More land needs to be released for housing.

Full text:

see response by agent on behalf of J Maddock & family
Land fronting Dickens Heath Raod/Birchy Leasowes Lane & Tilehoue Lane

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3494

Received: 16/03/2017

Respondent: BDW and Gallagher Estates Ltd

Agent: Avison Young

Representation Summary:

Paragraph 83 should be amended to state;
"The Borough will have continued to protect the best of the Green Belt, whilst sustainable extensions to those settlements that are highly accessible or have a wide range of services,based upon the evidence set out through the Borough's Green Belt Assessment and Sustainability Appraisal will provide for the needs of the Borough and proportionate needs of the wider HMA, as agreed through the Duty to Cooperate.

Paragraph 84 should be amended to include;
"A mix of market and affordable housing will have been provided in Balsall Common, with significant new development on the edge of the settlement, achieved through the careful selection of sites to ensure that the best of the Green Belt is retained, based upon evidence set out in the Borough's Green Belt Assessment."

Full text:

see attached document to supplement online submissions

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3555

Received: 16/02/2017

Respondent: Mrs Melanie MacSkimming

Representation Summary:

Agree with very little.
Clearly written from an urban Solihull-centric perspective.

Full text:


Response to Solihull MBC 23 question extended consultation on the draft local plan
TO WHOM THIS MAY CONCERN
Responses to the questionnaire regarding extended consulatation on the draft local plan.
Question 1 are the right borough challenges identified
Will the impact of Brexit have a material effect on the total number of homes needed in the Borough?
Question 2 agreement with the Borough Vision
Only In a very small part yes, but it is clearly written from an urban Solihull-centric perspective, once more bringing into disrepute the belief that Solihull successfully combines a well-balanced combined Urban and Rural vision. Looked at from a holistic position, Solihull MBC in this draft proposal will not be satisfied with following their own policies until an urban jungle is built through the most vulnerable and narrow portion of the Green Belt between Balsall Common and Coventry City.
SMBC fought a huge battle at enormous cost to preserve this piece of land from a coal mine development; why is it now prepared to sacrifice this precious 'lung' between two major city conurbations?
Balsall Common is already a congested community with poor infrastructure and very poor public sector connectivity with the local economic centres which are primarily to the East and South ie NOT Solihull and this is the way traffic flows at peak times.
Further, no consideration has been given to considering sites to the South and West of the settlement toward the considerable economic development driven by JLR at their Fen End site, where they plan to site 2,000+ engineers. Many of these people will seek homes in Balsall Common and, therefore, to reduce cross-village traffic any major development should be on the West side of the village. Similarly, if a village bypass should ever be needed then consideration should be given to siting this on the West side.
Adding the proposed disproportionate housing and its resulting population to Balsall Common in sensitive and fragile Green Belt areas will simply make the problems worse and continue the belief that SMBC will ignore its own Policies when they do not suit political goals.
Question 3 agreement with Spatial Strategy?
The approach defined for sites being appropriate for development as written looks good with the right priorities, but unfortunately they have not been adhered to in this draft plan.
Barratt's Farm land is Greenfield land not Brownfield land and has significant drain off issues. Additionally, as stressed above, the village is virtually bereft of effective public transport.
The demolition of the Meriden Gap Green Belt and its impact on the local ecology of the green fields, ancient hedge rows and trees will directly affect the existing local residents and families who extensively use the area and its many crisscrossing footpaths for open air exercise and leisure activities. The additional traffic emanating from such a large increase in housing will add to the air pollution caused by poor control of the take-off and landing heights from Birmingham Airport, especially the northern turn over the settlement.
If this land is built on, then the drain off problem identified above will represent a risk to local adjoining properties to the north and south.
This area is already under severe threat of noise and Greenbelt erosion from HS2.
Piling in some 800 homes with shops, a school and other amenities with poor access to existing roads is a planning nightmare.
The site between Windmill Lane and the A452 Kenilworth Road to the South of the settlement is broadly a Brownfield site, BUT it is also proposed for a density of housing which is too high. This will generate traffic onto the narrow Windmill Lane that has poor visibility junctions at each end, or onto the A452 Trunk road with difficult North and South junctions.
Question 7 regarding sustainable Economic Development?
Good principles, but again not seriously considered in the draft plan with no consideration of the disproportionate building of houses on an already congested and ill planned village centre.
Question11 policy P2 providing homes for all
The total proposed housing numbers are grossly disproportionate to the size of the existing community and will have a very significant detrimental impact on the size, shape, character and environment of Balsall Common as a Rural Village. It is also noticed that while mention is made of affordable homes, no mention is made of homes for older members of the community.
Question 15 appropriateness of draft proposed sites.
As mentioned throughout this response, Solihull MBC have failed to follow their own Policies in establishing the appropriateness of the chosen sites and yet proposals for a new village on a brown field site development to the north of the region have been ignored. This is also true of potential sites to the South/East of Solihull toward Hampton in Arden and Catherin de Barnes, these being closer to the proposed new High Speed HS2 interchange.
Question 16 completeness of required supporting infrastructure to complement the proposed draft development?
While Doctors and Schooling infrastructure is mentioned, no mention is made of shopping, banking etc and banks are currently withdrawing from Balsall Common. A lack of action on the site to the rear of the Co-op shop has caused it to be isolated from other retail outlets and has exacerbated the lack of any sense of a cohesive village centre. Car parking facilities in the Village are very limited and in some areas dangerous.
Question18 sustainable Travel
Good ideals but difficult to execute when public transport, apart from Birmingham focused rail, is very, very poor in the area.
Question 22 Delivery
CIL payments for local development should be focussed in the local area for locally requested and agreed infrastructure improvements.
Question 23 Any other comment
No explanation has been given to the fact that a grossly disproportionate number of houses are proposed to be built in Balsall Common in important and sensitive Green Belt land compared with elsewhere in Solihull Borough. Areas such as Dorridge, Knowle, Chadwick End and Fen End to the South are in less sensitive and less pressured areas of Green Belt land.
There is a very strong perception in the Balsall Common area that Solihull MBC have abandoned the Greenbelt and consciously discarded their own policies and values and have consequently lost what trust they had as a result.
It also appears from the draft local development plan consultation information booklet that land belonging to Lynda Beasley (Wyer) and Michael Cooper has been included in the proposed Barratt's Farm development. We assume this error will be rectified. In the event this development does proceed we would expect a barrier to be put in place to protect livestock on the above mentioned fields.

Yes

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3583

Received: 16/02/2017

Respondent: Gladman Developments

Representation Summary:

Agree with Borough Vision.
Need Council will and policies to follow them through.
Particularly supportive of approach to consider needs of Rural Area (Para. 83).

Full text:

Solihull Local Plan Review - Draft Plan Consultation
Please find attached a representation from Gladman into the above referenced consultation

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3601

Received: 14/02/2017

Respondent: Peter Bray

Representation Summary:

The vision statement is good, it appears to rely on HS2, the Airport and JLR - things that are not in their control. Balsall Common is affected by the increased traffic from the Airport and soon to be HS2. This does not fit in with the vision in any way. Housing should be moderated in this area. A larger population cannot be supported by the current infrastructure. The village centre is bursting at the seams now and development in the centre exacerbates this and is a poor showing against the vision for Balsall Common. We want no more of this.

Full text:

see attached written rep

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3746

Received: 16/03/2017

Respondent: Hockley Heath Parish Council

Representation Summary:

Vision paragraph for Hockley Heath (paragraph 84) includes provision for affordable housing. However, residents identified a need for some new housing but support a mix that suits 'all pockets', especially the provision of bungalows or similar properties that would be accessible for elderly residents or those looking to downsize, not just affordable housing. Residents strongly feel that Hockley Heath should not be earmarked as available for development for affordable housing for the Borough, as this statement suggests. We would like this statement reworded to include Hockley Heath in the earlier part of the sentence with Knowle, Dorridge and Bentley Heath.

Full text:

original responses not received - copy provided
see attached letter

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3769

Received: 16/02/2017

Respondent: Simon Taylor

Representation Summary:

Number of priorities seem in contradiction to one another, and it is not clear which of these is the most important.
Para. 87 is flawed, i.e. significant new develpoment at Dickens Heath, Cheswick Green and Blythe Valley park will not allow the area to retain its intrinsic character of distinct villages separated by open countryside.

Full text:

see attached letter and supporting annotated map

Yes

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3800

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: Colchurch Properties Ltd

Agent: Richard Brown Planning

Representation Summary:

We agree with the Borough Vision, in particular (paragraph 86) that for Balsall Common it is acknowledged that market and affordable housing should be provided for the village by way of a sustainable urban extension, to also address community needs and that an alternative route to Kenilworth Road can be provided

Full text:

Please find attached a response to the Solihull Local Plan Review consultation on behalf of Colchurch Properties Limited who are promoting land to the south of Station Road, Balsall Common.

This response comprises a 'Vision Document' which includes the following sections,

Foreword (inset)
1. Introduction
2. The Vision
3. Planning Background
4. Draft Local Plan 2016 Consultation Response
5. The Concept Masterplan (not including figures which are within the hard copy and CD issued separately)
6. Transport and Access

Yes

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3818

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: John Parker

Agent: DS Planning

Representation Summary:

* Agree in principle and in particular:
o That high density development will have been delivered along key
public transport corridors, and sustainable urban extensions
accommodated to help meet the housing needs of the Borough and its
housing market area.

Full text:

see attached

Yes

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3849

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: Ron Shiels

Agent: DS Planning

Representation Summary:

Agree in principle with particular reference to:
o Higher density development will have been delivered along key public transport corridors, and sustainable urban extensions accommodated to help meet the housing needs of the Borough and its housing market area.
o The Rural Area vision of sustaining the network of strong and vibrant communities across the rural area
o In the Dickens Heath, Tidbury Green, Cheswick Green Rural Area the reference to contributing to meeting the Borough's housing need, whilst retaining its intrinsic character of distinctive villages separated by open countryside.

Full text:

see attached

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3881

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: IM Land

Agent: Turley

Representation Summary:

DLP established a positive economic context and ambition for Solihull.
Support the proactive visioning within the Draft Local Plan.
Concern that this ambition is not matched through other draft polices, including scale of housing to be provided for in Policy P5.

Full text:

In respect of the Draft Solihull Local Plan Review consultation please find attached representations which are submitted by Turley on behalf of IM Land.

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3889

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: IM Properties

Agent: Turley

Representation Summary:

DLP established a positive economic context and ambition for Solihull.
Support the proactive visioning within the Draft Local Plan.
Concern that this ambition is not matched through other draft polices, including scale of housing to be provided for in Policy P5.

Full text:

In respect of the Draft Solihull Local Plan Review consultation please find attached representations which are submitted by Turley on behalf of IM Properties and IM Land.

Yes

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3917

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: Stoford Properties

Agent: Barton Willmore

Representation Summary:

Support the Vision.
In particular, agree with Vision for the UKC Hub area and the UK Central initiative captures the potential and ambitionsfor the Borough as a catalyst for a glocally competitive knowledge based economy and driver for sustainable economic growth and employment.
To achieve this Vision, needs to be sufficient employment land to meet the economic needs of industury and the clear market demand that exists.

Full text:

We would like to submit a formal response to the Solihull Draft Local Plan Review Consultation on behalf of Stoford Properties. As part of our response, please find attached our Representations Letter.

No

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3943

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: Rosconn Stategic Land

Agent: DS Planning

Representation Summary:

Agree in principle, in particular:
Higher density development along key public transport corridors.
Sustainable urban extensions.
Rural Area vision, noting severe shortage of affordable housing.
Mix of market and affordable housing in Knowle and Dorridge.

Reference should also be made to affordable housing need in Hockley Heath.

Full text:

see response and supporting documents

Yes

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3951

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: Taylor Wimpey

Agent: Barton Willmore Planning

Representation Summary:

Agree with Vision.
Sets out to be forward thinking to provide the homes, employment opportunities and green spaces require to provide for sustainable and balanced communities and managed growth for the Borough.
Consider Growth Options (in particular G) meet the Vision.
E.g. Site 9 in Knowle.

Full text:

In accordance with the consultation deadline for the Draft Local Plan Review, please find attached the following sent on behalf of our clients Taylor Wimpey UK Ltd:

* Letter addressing our representations on behalf of our client Taylor Wimpey UK Ltd
* Appendix 1 Proposed Allocation Plan Layout
* Appendix 2 Grove Road, Knowle Promotional Document

Yes

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 3999

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: Minton (CdeB) Ltd

Agent: DS Planning

Representation Summary:

Agree in principle and in particular:
Rural area Vision and sustaining network of strong and vibrant communities & increased range of affordable housing.
However, concerned over lack of reference to Catherine de Barnes in the 'distinct places' section.
Cdb has strong, vibrant community, some facilities and accepted successful housing development.

Full text:

see attached response and supporting documents

Yes

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 4041

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: Stonewater

Agent: DS Planning

Representation Summary:

* Agree in principle and in particular:
Rural area Vision,
Specific rural vision for Catherine de Barnes, Hampton and Meriden which states a mix of market and affordable housing will be required.

Full text:

see attached

Yes

Draft Local Plan Review

Representation ID: 4088

Received: 17/02/2017

Respondent: Persimmon Homes Central

Representation Summary:

Agree with Vision.
Agree significant new development should be directed towards sustainable settlement of Dickens Heath to meet Borough's housing need.
Dickens Heath has number of services and good public transport links.
Dickens Heath is capable of accommodating and being enhanced by level of growth identified.

Full text:

Please find attached Persimmon Homes Central's representations in response to the draft plan published November 2016. Also attached are our site specific representations regarding our site at Tythe Barn Lane, Dickens Heath, which forms part of the strategic allocation.