An appeal has been lodged over plans to build 355 homes on green belt land in Walsall, meaning the decision now rests with a government planning inspector. Applicant Ashberry Strategic Land Ltd submitted the appeal against Walsall Council on the grounds of non-determination, following the council's failure to make a decision on the proposal for Stonnall Road.
Site details and access
The 14.1-hectare site stretches over agricultural fields in Aldridge between Stonnall Road and Lazy Hill Road. If approved, the new estate, described as a 'natural extension to Aldridge', will be accessed by two points off Stonnall Road. The land is currently designated as green belt, but it was previously allocated for 363 houses in the Walsall Borough Local Plan under the former Conservative administration. The site remains allocated for housing in the latest draft plan created by Reform.
Affordable housing and open space
Ashberry Strategic Land Ltd states that 142 of the total 355 homes will be classed as affordable. The plans also indicate that all existing trees and hedgerows will be retained 'where possible', and that 3.7 hectares of public open space will be delivered as part of the development.
Appeal process and timeline
Parties currently have until October 1 to submit representations for the appeal before a final decision is made at inquiry. The outcome will determine whether the green belt land is developed for housing, with significant implications for the local community and housing supply in Aldridge.
