Solihull Council has unanimously approved outline planning permission for 970 new homes in Balsall Common, a significant urban extension on grey belt land between Station Road and Waste Lane, adjacent to the new HS2 line. The development, proposed by Harris Strategic Land and Colchurch Properties Limited, includes 50 per cent affordable housing, 70 units for care or retirement accommodation, a new primary school, additional car parking for Berkswell Railway Station, and public open space.
Community Engagement Criticized
Ward councillor Heather Delaney strongly criticized the developers for failing to engage with the local community. 'The applicant has not carried out any public engagement since 2022, despite the scheme changing significantly over this time,' she said. Planning committee chairman Councillor Bob Grinsell echoed her disappointment, telling the developers' agent: 'Community engagement seems to have been zero.'
Residents Resigned to Growth
Parish councillor Richard Drake acknowledged the community's resignation to the scale of development. 'As a community we are mostly resigned to nearly 2,000 new homes coming,' he stated. The approval comes as council officers determined the green belt land was suitable for development under current government policy, classifying it as 'grey belt'.
Key Details of the Scheme
The development will provide 970 homes, with half designated as affordable housing. It also includes 70 units for older people, a primary school, and expanded parking at Berkswell station. The site is part of a broader trend of housing growth in the area, with nearly 2,000 homes planned in total across Balsall Common.
