A major housebuilder has unveiled a controversial proposal to construct more than a hundred new dwellings on protected green belt land in the West Midlands. Taylor Wimpey has submitted an outline planning application to Solihull Council for a development of 120 homes on agricultural fields off Stratford Road in Shirley.
Details of the Green Belt Development Plan
The application, which was formally lodged on December 23, 2025, seeks permission for the principle of developing the 6.95-hectare site. The plans include a mix of open space, landscaping, and new infrastructure, with half of the proposed homes designated as affordable housing. The land in question consists of three agricultural fields, partially divided by existing hedgerows, and is bordered by a cosmetic practice and an Old Orleans restaurant.
In its planning statement, Taylor Wimpey describes the design as "landscape-led," aiming to create an attractive environment while integrating with the surrounding area. A key feature of the proposal is the creation of a new access road leading from the existing Stratford Road roundabout directly to the development site.
The "Grey Belt" Argument and Housing Pressure
The developer is attempting to frame the debate by classifying the site as "grey belt" – a term used to describe lower quality green belt land deemed more suitable for development. Taylor Wimpey argues that the land falls into this category, making it appropriate for new housing. However, the application also includes a contingency, stating that if the council does not accept the grey belt designation, the proposal should be approved under "very special circumstances."
This argument is bolstered by the significant housing target imposed on Solihull by the government. The borough has been tasked with delivering 8,500 new homes by 2029, creating substantial pressure to identify viable sites. This application is the latest in a series of attempts to build on Solihull's green belt as the council struggles to meet this mandatory objective.
Next Steps and Public Consultation
The application is currently at the outline stage, meaning detailed matters concerning the layout, scale, and appearance of the homes would be decided later through a separate "reserved matters" application, should initial permission be granted. A public consultation is now actively underway, giving local residents and interested parties the opportunity to submit their views.
The deadline for submissions to Solihull Council is January 27, 2026. The plans can be viewed and comments can be registered by searching for application reference PL/2025/02373/PPOL on the council's online planning portal. The final decision will rest with the council's planning committee, weighing the acute need for housing against the policy of protecting the green belt.
