A contentious proposal to build eight apartments on a residential plot in the Black Country has been definitively blocked after government inspectors sided with local planners.
Appeal dismissed over density and safety
The Planning Inspectorate has dismissed an appeal against Dudley Council's decision to refuse permission for the development on Nimmings Road in Blackheath, near Halesowen. The application, registered in January 2025, sought to construct eight one-bedroom dwellings with ten parking spaces on land where a detached house once stood.
While the inspector noted the scheme did not constitute 'garden grabbing' as the original house was demolished, significant concerns were raised. The planned density of 77 dwellings per hectare was found to be far above the local norm for the area.
Key reasons for refusal upheld
The inspector's report highlighted two core issues that led to the appeal's failure. Firstly, the provision of ten parking spaces and a turning area was judged to be out of keeping with the surrounding development pattern, harming the area's character.
More critically, the design was deemed a risk to highway and pedestrian safety. The inspector concluded that residents exiting the property would step directly onto an access road, with the building's design limiting drivers' views and creating a dangerous situation.
Council's original stance vindicated
Dudley Council's planning officer had originally recommended refusal in March 2025, stating the development would create an "overly intensive and contrived form" of building that would undermine the street scene. The council also cited the impact on highway safety.
The inspector's final report stated: "The identified harm arising from the proposed development's effect on the character of the area, the living conditions of occupants and the safety of pedestrians would significantly and demonstrably outweigh the benefits." This ruling marks the third failed attempt to gain planning permission for the site, with two previous applications also being rejected.
