Backing for under-fire Walsall homes plan
A controversial housing development in a leafy area of Walsall is poised to get the go-ahead after six failed attempts and more than 300 objections. A new application is now being recommended for approval.
Previous proposals for 14 apartments in Woodside Close, Park Hall, have been thrown out by Walsall Council and an independent Government inspector on half-a-dozen occasions over the last few years.
But the new application is being backed by planning officers tomorrow, although campaigners are continuing to object.
A fresh petition of 258 signatures has been submitted while opposition has also come from the Cottage Farm Residents' Association, Walsall South MP Valerie Vaz and Paddock Councillor Rose Martin.
Councillor Martin, who is supporting neighbours, said: "Residents are still overwhelmingly against this over-development, on the basis that the density is still too high, inadequate parking and amenity space."
But head of planning David Elsworthy said: "The size, scale and appearance of the three apartment blocks would be consistent with the design of the existing dwellings in the area and would sit comfortably within the existing pattern of the development."
