Proposals to build more than 600 homes on greenbelt land in Catshill have met with mounting opposition from residents, who warn the plans risk damaging the local environment and overwhelming infrastructure.
85% increase in Bromsgrove’s housing target
The development is outlined in Bromsgrove District Council’s draft Local Plan, which sets the framework for housebuilding across the district. Catshill has been identified for 605 new homes, a figure driven by a central government decision to increase Bromsgrove’s housing target by 85%.
An unfair formula
With 89% of the district designated as greenbelt and 79% classed as rural, campaigners argue Bromsgrove is being unfairly burdened, while cities like Birmingham, which has at least 140 hectares of brownfield land, have seen their targets reduced by 31%.
Residents are concerned
Residents gathered recently at Catshill Community Orchard to voice their concerns, joined by local leaders and MP for Bromsgrove and the Villages, Bradley Thomas.
Thomas said: “As a direct result of the Government’s 85% increase in our housebuilding target, our precious greenbelt is under threat – including here in Catshill where 605 homes could be built.”
Councillor Shirley Webb said: “It’s vitally important to protect our green spaces not just for nature, but for the health, wellbeing and connection of our community.”
Parliamentary petition
A parliamentary petition launched by Bradley Thomas has already attracted over 1,700 signatures, calling on ministers to revise the figures and return decision-making to local hands.
Residents can sign Bradley Thomas’ petition here: www.bradleythomas.org.uk/campaigns/save-our-greenbelt-sign-bradleys-petition
Live nearby and are concerned?
Let us know your thoughts on the development. Email our team: newsdesk@westmidlands.news
