Brownhills Common petition puts fight on agenda
Controversial plans to create extra heathland at Brownhills Common – and fell some trees in the process – will be discussed by a watchdog group.
A petition of more than 1,400 names has been submitted to Walsall Council in protest at a move to increase the amount of heathland at the popular beauty spot from 36 per cent to 60 per cent.
Now members of a council scrutiny group have put the issue on their agenda for a meeting on Monday.
The community services and environment scrutiny group said it would look at the proposals due to the strong reaction from residents.
They are upset at the planned loss of trees at the site, although council chiefs have claimed the move is 'entirely for the good of the area'.
Councillor Val Woodruff, who chairs the scrutiny panel, said: "We want to take a closer look at what is planned in light of the strength of feeling that has come from residents, nature lovers and visitors and members alike, not least through the large petition that has been presented.
"This special meeting will give us an opportunity to examine the background, the evidence for the planned course of action and gather experts' views too.
"Members of the public are welcome to attend to hear the detailed discussions and any recommendations that scrutiny might make."
The scrutiny meeting will be held at Walsall Council House, in Lichfield Street, starting at 6pm.
