More than 200 people from Sutton Coldfield attended a Public Meeting last Saturday, Chaired by Andrew Mitchell MP, at which concerned residents unanimously opposed the proposal by Labour-controlled Birmingham City Council to build 10,000 homes on Sutton Coldfield’s Green Belt.
Following the meeting Andrew Mitchell MP said, “This proposal could change the character of Sutton forever. The Green Belt is ours in trust for future generations and all other options need to be explored in far more detail.”
These include:
· A more detailed look at Brownfield land available throughout Birmingham and a more imaginative and creative approach to building new communities there;
· A look at Brownfield land available across the West Midlands and throughout the Local Enterprise Partnership with proper respect for the wishes of all local authorities some of whom are seeking more housing and inward investment;
· A full study on the effects of building on Sutton Coldfield’s Green Belt including the effects on infrastructure, medical and school facilities and transport as well as environmental effects, drainage and overall suitability;
· A further examination of the figures of housing need taking into account new and lower estimates for international immigration.
Andrew Mitchell MP said, “That so many of my constituents attended last Saturday shows the immense concern throughout the Town and determination to fight these plans. I urge concerned constituents to send individual submissions to the City Council and cannot stress how important this is.”
To register your comments, suggest an alternative approach or if you would like to know more about the Draft Birmingham Development Plan you can:
· Email - [email protected]
· Visit - http://www.birmingham.gov.uk/plan2031
· Download a response & post to - Director of Planning & Regeneration
Development & Culture Directorate
Birmingham City Council
PO Box 28
Birmingham B1 1TU