Solihull Local Plan (Draft Submission) 2020

Include reference in the Infrastructure Delivery Plan, to the requirement to consult Network Rail to determine the impacts of the proposal both in terms of construction management and residential traffic issues before any proposals are brought forward.

Network Rail is a statutory consultee for any planning applications within 10 metres of relevant railway land (as the Rail Infrastructure Managers for the railway, set out in Article 16 of the Development Management Procedure Order) and for any development likely to result in a material increase in the volume or a material change in the character of traffic using a level crossing over a railway (as the Rail Network Operators, set out in Schedule 4 (J) of the Development Management Procedure Order).

Network Rail is also a statutory undertaker responsible for maintaining and operating the railway infrastructure and associated estate. It owns, operates and develops the main rail network. Network Rail aims to protect and enhance the railway infrastructure, therefore any proposed development which is in close proximity to the railway line or could potentially affect Network Rail’s specific land interests will need to be carefully considered.

All planning policy consultations and planning application notifications should be issued to the following email address only:

TownPlanningLNW@networkrail.co.uk

With regards to the Local Plan regulation 19 review, Network Rail would comment that we are concern that 300 dwellings are proposed on site BL3 off Bills Lane near Shirley Railway Station and also Whitlocks End Railway Station. There is a low railway bridge (12 foot 3”) on Bills Lane and there may be an increased risk of vehicles striking the bridge if development is permitted.

Before any proposals for this site are brought forward Network Rail MUST be consulted by the council and developers to determine the impacts of the proposal both construction management / residential traffic issues. Any mitigation measures required by Network Rail to protect the railway bridge will need to be fully funded by the developer.
During the current situation all planning applications and planning policy consultation must be issued to:
TownPlanningLNW@networkrail.co.uk only. Please do not send hard copies to the Manchester office as the Town Planning team are working from home.