Former Stourbridge school set to become homes

The Longlands School site, in Bowling Green Road, would be ripped down to make way for the properties, under the proposals submitted by developer Persimmon Homes.

But residents have slammed the plans, saying the new homes will lead to further congestion and put a strain on the local services.

Those living nearby in the Old Quarter have said there are 'major problems' with the application.

Amelia Wood, who lives near the site, said: "The roads are already too busy and this is a valuable green space we will lose."

Another neighbour added: "The impact in the local area and its resources will prove catastrophic for the local area in terms of traffic congestion, from heavy vehicles. Also the proposed increase to already stretched services and amenities in the area, the local doctors surgery is already struggling under its current patient load."

Thomas Etheridge, who also lives by the site, said any current problems with the area would just be made worse.

"The area is already used as a 'cut through' with vehicles often travelling above speed limits. Traffic will also be increased while the houses and being built," he said.

Vandals

"There is also currently limited parking in the area causing people to park vehicles in places that restrict visibility. It is my understanding the new development will provide parking to the new homes but the existing issue of restricted visibility will be made worse with additional traffic and will potentially increases the chances of an accident."

The Longlands site, owned by Birmingham Metropolitan College, has lain empty since 2011.

It had been plagued by vandals during its first few years of being abandoned, but has now been taken over by trees, shrubs and greenery.

Highways England said that Persimmon Homes was working 'extensively' with officers to ensure the site would be safe for both new and current residents.

A spokesman said: "Public objections made regarding local traffic issues have been considered at length.

"The existing buildings could be renovated and the site reopened as a school without any new planning consideration. The traffic generation potential of the current land use by comparison to the new housing development would be significantly greater.

"It is accepted that during the construction period delays and access issues will occur, with the large vehicles required for material deliveries but the contractor will have to develop an acceptable construction management plan to minimise the disruption."

A planning application has been submitted to Dudley Council for members to consider later this month.