Enterprise zone under fire for green belt bid by Dudley council
Campaigners fear part of the green belt could be swallowed up by a new enterprise zone earmarked for land beside the M5 in Halesowen, if plans are given the go-ahead.
Dudley Council is looking at whether it is feasible to develop land near junction 3 of the motorway in a bid to create around 6,000 jobs.
Bosses have confirmed the development site – which borders Manor Way to the north and the motorway to the east, could include green belt land – however as the proposals are still at an early stage, the exact location is not yet known.
But the plans have come under fire from Hales Owen Abbey Trust, which fears it could have a devastating impact on the green belt area. There is also concerns about the impact on Halesowen Abbey which is near the site.
Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP James Morris says he also has reservations about developing on the green belt.
Mick Freer, acting honorary secretary, said: " It is a very special landscape associated with the vista from and to the renowned Clent Hills.
"This is beautiful, historic countryside that Dudley Council are seriously threatening – make no mistake of that.
"We are considering all options, including organising walks to show the public the serious impact upon their countryside."
Mr Morris said he was keen to find out more about the proposals. He added: "This proposal raises real concerns about the impact on the green belt around Halesowen and the proximity of historic sites such as the Halesowen Abbey.
"Also the affects on local infrastructure such as the A456 and other local roads would be considerable. We currently do not have any detail on this proposal or location of this site.
The council has said that full proposals will be drawn up before a public consultation.
Councillor Khurshid Ahmed, cabinet member for regeneration, said: "As part of the combined authorities work we are looking at the opportunity for large scale economic growth of regional significance.
"As part of that we are going to explore whether or not there would be scope to put together a significant employment site in the area bounded by Manor Way to the north and the M5 to the east. The exact specifics of any site will be determined through the study. Issues in relation to the feasibility of this proposal and implications around planning, access and highways would be carried out as part of the review."
