Hockley Heath Residents Fume as Council Backs Nine-Home Development Plan
Planners at Solihull Council have given their support in principle for the construction of up to nine new homes in Hockley Heath, sparking anger and concern among local residents who flooded the authority with objections. The decision was made during a recent planning committee meeting, highlighting tensions over development in the village.
Resident Outcry Over Flooding and Infrastructure
During the public speaking section of the meeting, neighbour Stuart Swinton voiced strong opposition, stating, "We don't think this is a suitable location due to flooding. The site is covered by surface water at least three to six months per year." He added that Hockley Heath residents are angry and concerned, describing a "tsunami of speculative planning applications" submitted in recent months.
Hockley Heath Parish Council chairman, Councillor Greg McDougall, echoed these concerns, emphasising the village's limited public transport infrastructure. He argued that the development is "inappropriate and unsuitable" and urged the committee to refuse the application.
Applicant's Case for Housing Need
Chartered surveyor Vicky Chell, representing applicant Frances Ashton, defended the proposal. She explained that the application is the first stage in seeking consent for housing on land adjacent to School Road, previously part of the former Ashton Nurseries site. Chell stated, "The proposed development will help to meet what is defined as a substantial shortfall of housing in the borough." She highlighted that the nine dwellings represent an appropriate density and the site is accessible by various means of transport.
Councillor Debate and Gold Rush Concerns
In the members' debate, Councillor Dave Pinwell expressed sympathy for residents, noting, "I am very sympathetic with the residents of Hockley Heath who are in the heat of a gold rush as far as proposals for development are concerned. The village is certainly not capable of sustaining all of them." He raised severe doubts about the land's suitability, particularly regarding drainage and ecology issues.
Committee chairman Councillor Bob Grinsell clarified that at this initial stage, they could only consider location, land use, and the amount of development. He remarked, "I think this permission in principle – let's face it, anything is feasible in principle. I could be King of England in principle. It's very difficult for us to consider refusal at this point." However, he assured that the second stage would be scrutinised rigorously based on resident concerns.
Vote Outcome and Next Steps
When the vote was taken, six committee members voted in favour, with three against, approving the application in principle. Councillor Grinsell concluded, "It's approved, we all look forward to stage two coming in front of us." The meeting was held at the Civic Suite on March 11, 2026, setting the stage for further detailed assessments of the proposed development.
