Campaigners are urging that a contentious planning appeal concerning two five-bedroom houses on Barr Lakes Lane in Walsall be conducted as a public inquiry rather than behind closed doors.
Bob Winkle, chairman of Beacon Action Group, emphasized the exceptional public interest surrounding the application, asserting that the appeal must be held openly to ensure transparency.
The case began when Walsall Council’s planning officers recommended refusal after receiving objections from half of the statutory consultees, including conservation, ecology, highways, and planning policy departments. Despite this, following a call-in from former councillor Saiqa Nasreen, the planning committee voted to approve the scheme on June 19, 2023. During that meeting, the council’s principal solicitor warned the committee that approving the plans could leave the authority vulnerable.
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The decision met significant opposition from councillors, community groups, and local residents, leading to a judicial review challenge. Walsall Council later confirmed that approval was conditional upon further information submissions, planning conditions, and a Section 106 agreement.
More than a year after the approval, applicant Shahzad Akram submitted an appeal to the planning inspector on the grounds of non-determination, citing that a formal decision notice from the council was never issued.
Mr. Winkle highlighted numerous irregularities in the process, including incomplete application forms, inconsistent neighbour notifications, prolonged information delays, an irregular committee meeting, and an overdue decision notice, all contributing to calls for an open public inquiry.
He stated, “The council’s recommendation to refuse was overturned without adequate material planning reasons. Given the exceptional public interest, objections, and procedural issues, a public inquiry is essential to maintain openness and transparency.”
The Planning Inspectorate has validated the appeal, which is currently in consultation. The deadline for comments from the council and other interested parties is August 11. An inspector will soon decide whether the case will proceed via written representation or be heard at a public inquiry.