Walsall homes nod after eight year battle

The project in Woodside Close, Park Hall has previously been rejected seven times by Walsall Council after hundreds of residents signed petitions against it.

But developers behind the plans for the apartments have now been given permission by an independent planning inspector.

The applicant has said the whole process over the years has cost him around £140,000 in submitting applications, architect and planning consultation fees.

Council planners repeatedly turned down the scheme for 14 homes across three blocks that will see existing properties on the land demolished.

There have been eight applications made in total, with councillors refusing to consider one as it had not addressed the issues in previous failed plans. Campaigners were concerned over the impact on the character of the area and a proposed sub-station.

Developer David Stone said he was pleased with the outcome and work could start later this year. He said he was concerned it had taken such a long-time.

"It has been frustrating and disappointing but I am pleased it is now going to be able to take place," he said.

Councillor Rose Martin, who has helped battle against the scheme on behalf of residents, said: "It is very unfortunate.

"The majority of residents in the area fought against this for eight years. As far as they are concerned it is very high density and a complete over-development which is out of character with the rest of the area.

"We all worked together, colleagues on the council tried to stop it. I really do think these people down in Bristol should make these decisions and they don't know the area and the character of the area."

More than 300 residents have been against the scheme and the government has also turned down the development before on appeals.

However, in the latest decision notice, which grants planning permission, inspector Ian Radcliffe said the scheme would represent a marked improvement for the site.

Regeneration chief, Councillor Mohammed Nazir, added: "This has been a long and difficult situation for all concerned including the occupiers of neighbouring premises who have had to deal with a series of applications and appeals and the related uncertainty over the years."