Controversial homes plan for green space in Oldbury is withdrawn
A controversial plan to build on green space in Oldbury has been withdrawn at the last minute.
Developers quashed their application to Sandwell Council's planning committee to build 13 homes on Wolverhampton Road, as councillors met on Wednesday night to discuss the scheme.
The plan was the second attempt to build on the land after a similar application was thrown out in March.
An original plan for 14 homes was rejected on the grounds of inadequate parking, over-development, flood risk and the loss of open space despite the council selling the land as suitable for housing in 2016.
The latest application had the full support of planning officers who said there are no grounds to refuse the scheme.
In their report to councillors they, said: “Highways have stated that parking provision is plentiful and have raised no concerns in regards to highway safety; the Lead Local Flood Authority has raised no objection in respect of flood risk (furthermore, the site does not meet the criteria for comment by the Environment Agency); and the loss of open space cannot be credibly upheld as a reason for refusal, due to the site being long identified as surplus to the council’s open space requirements.”
Recommending councillors approve the development, they added: “The proposal offers a housing scheme within the context of an established residential area which will assist in contributing toward the shortfall of housing identified within Sandwell.
“Considering the comments of consultees, there are no robust planning grounds to withhold planning permission. The proposal is acceptable from a planning perspective and is recommended for approval subject to conditions.”
No explanation for the withdrawal was given and officers did not say if the plans would be re-submitted at a later date.
