Government Drops Wychavon Town from New Towns Initiative
Plans for a new town in the West Midlands have been excluded from the government's latest list of proposed developments, but local authorities are refusing to abandon the project. Wychavon Town, which aims to build thousands of homes around Worcestershire Parkway railway station, was not included among the seven locations selected for the government's "next generation" of new towns.
Local Commitment Remains Unwavering
Despite this setback, Wychavon District Council has affirmed that nothing has changed in their commitment to the development. Councillor Emma Kearsey, the executive board member for planning, infrastructure, and urban design, stated that work on Wychavon Town began long before the government's involvement and that the announcement does not alter their plans. She criticized the decision-making process as "shambolic" and lacking in scrutiny, arguing that Wychavon Town is better positioned than some listed sites to deliver infrastructure-led growth.
Planning and Support Details
The development is already integrated into the South Worcestershire Development Plan Review (SWDPR), a planning blueprint set for formal adoption this week by Worcester, Wychavon, and Malvern Hills councils. Several planning applications for parts of Wychavon Town have been submitted, and the project will continue to receive support through the Government's New Homes Accelerator programme. Homes England, the government's housing and regeneration agency, will provide specialist assistance to overcome barriers and expedite housing and infrastructure delivery.
Government's Selected Sites and Local Reaction
The government's chosen locations for new towns include Tempsford in Bedfordshire, Crews Hills and Chase Park in Enfield, Leeds South Bank, Manchester Victoria North, Thamesmead in Greenwich, Brabazon and the West Innovation Arc in South Gloucestershire, and an expansion of Milton Keynes. Councillor Kearsey expressed confidence in moving forward with Wychavon Town, noting that the government has indicated ongoing support, though she called for clarity on funding and an explanation for the decision, which she described as "deeply questionable."
Community Impact and Opposition
By 2041, approximately 5,000 homes are expected to be built in the area, but the scheme faces local opposition. A petition against the development has garnered 670 signatures, highlighting community concerns. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government has been approached for comment on the matter.
