PLANS TO build 95 homes in Catherine De Barnes in the future looked set to be approved by Solihull Council’s Planning Committee.
Planning chiefs are due to decide the fate on the outline planning application to build on Oak Farm just off Hampton Lane and Friday Lane on Wednesday (September 11).
Developers Cala Homes want to build a number of homes ranging from one bedroom maisonettes four-bedroom houses and a playspace on the land.
The land is a mix of brownfield and Green Belt lans.
An application for outline planning permission allows for the Council to make a decision on the general principles of how a site can be developed but works should not begin until full planning permission has been given by the authority.
Documents released ahead of the meeting revealed the recommendation to Councillors was for approval to be given subject to conditions and a Section 106 agreement – a legal agreement ensuring developers contribute towards any necessary supportive infrastructure for instance widening of roads.
The documents also revealed there were 17 responses sent to them about the outline application including one from Catherine De Barnes Residents Association and from Hampton In Arden Parish Council.
Issues raised included lack of visibility on footpaths through to canal side, no parking for playground, no safe bike routes, poor bus service in area and no local GP service or school and the area has already been subjected to large amounts of development HS2/Motorway Service Area, M42 slip road.
A number of concerns were also raised about Green Belt land being developed.
In a statement by Pegasus Group on behalf of the developers it says: “The proposed development includes the provision of market housing and affordable housing against a shortfall locally; both of these benefits should be given substantial weight in the planning balance. Furthermore, the use of brownfield site in this location is a benefit that should be given substantial weight in line with the National Planning Policy Framework.
“The public open space and proposed play space will be available to existing residents in the local area, which can be attributed at least limited weight, along with new tree planting.
“The site is in a sustainable location, with access to day-to-day services and facilities, as well as a range of transport modes. Opportunities exist to improve pedestrian and cycle links as part of the proposed development; the improvements to pedestrian safety should be afforded limited weight.”
