CONTROVERSIAL plans to build two large houses are being recommended for approval by planning officers despite opposition from residents.
Plans to demolish 6 Alderbrook Road and construct two detached five-bedroom properties will be discussed at a Solihull council planning committee meeting on Wednesday (October 31).
Developer Project Six Alderbrook Road Limited has altered previous plans to build a block of five flats on the same plot which were rejected in June amid widespread public outcry.
The council’s Urban Designers have objected to the latest plans saying the houses will be too large, too tall and out of character with the area.
More than 50 people have objected to the proposals, campaigners say.
They have outlined further concerns about ‘garden grabbing’ and the loss of privacy for surrounding homes.
A planning officer’s report to go before councillors this week states the plans would ‘boost significantly’ the supply of housing in the borough and recommends them for approval.
The previous proposal for a block of flats prompted protest and a petition with over 350 signatures – but was still recommended for approval.
Resident campaigner Rick Paslawski said of the planning officer’s recommendation for approval: “The plans are still totally unacceptable.
“The footprint of the two houses is actually bigger than the footprint of the block of five flats.
“But the council is happy to allow anything to go through.
“It’s outrageous. Just because they want extra housing units, they’re passing anything through – irrespective of the amount of opposition.”
The planning officer’s report states: “The principle of this residential development is policy compliant, creating two residential units, in an established residential area, and in an accessible location within the borough.
“The buildings are respectful of the character, appearance and local distinctiveness of the area and they will not be unduly harmful to neighbour amenity, and there is no identified harm to the landscape character of the area or highway safety.”
There is a drive to boost housebuilding locally and regionally amid national shortages.
But campaigners say the two large properties outlined in the plans do not deliver the type of property required to meet housing needs in the borough, with smaller homes required.
