Concerns raised as plans for 65 homes on green space in Codsall submitted
A developer has launched plans to build 65 homes in parts of a Staffordshire village.
Miller Homes wants to construct the properties on green space off Keepers Lane, in Codsall.
The house-builder submitted a planning application to South Staffordshire Council on January 21.
It comes after the council approved outline planning permission for 65 homes on the site on February 20, 2019.
The new application has prompted 10 objections from local residents, while South Staffordshire MP Gavin Williamson has also raised concerns.
Issues highlighted include: potential flooding to neighbouring homes due to a nearby pool; greater pressure on nearby schools and GP surgeries; and the impact on wildlife.
Contractors were recently seen putting netting on hedgerows along Keepers Lane to stop birds from nesting.
One objector, called Leigh Knowles, said: "Our village is already becoming unrecognisable, traffic is awful and amenities are already stretched.
"We don't want the green belt disrupted and destroyed any more."
Another objector, Diana Fullwood, said: "When surveying the area no mention has been made of badgers which are protected.
"The wildlife that we have seen since living in this area will be lost for good."
Christopher Timmins added: "The land naturally soaks up a percentage of the flood water.
'Distinctiveness'
"Having all concrete and tarmac out there for the build, the water will run off and not soak away.
"This will run off towards our properties and cause us more problems."
Outline planning permission allows councils to establish the scale and nature of developments before any real plans are drawn up.
In the new application, Miller Homes says: "This proposal seeks to add to the character of Codsall and respect the local distinctiveness."
However South Staffordshire MP Gavin Williamson said: "There is a huge concern that this development will have a lasting impact on our green spaces which I have continually fought to preserve.
"A proposal of this nature would lead to increased traffic around Keepers and Suckling Green Lane, which at present can get heavily congested with current vehicle numbers.
"Local residents who live on Oaken Park, just behind this proposed site, have contacted me to raise the issue of flooding due to limited drainage and poor maintenance, and 65 further homes would only compound the matter.
"There should always be a policy of brownfield land first.
"I'm of the belief that a development of this size is misguided in its efforts to safeguard our green spaces."
The council will make a decision on the plans at a future date.
