Local campaigners’ worst fears have been confirmed with the submission of a planning application for more than 500 homes on prized green belt land in Kingswinford. Dudley Council is currently reviewing an outline proposal from developer Barberry Summerville to build 557 homes on a stretch of land known locally as ‘The Triangle’ on Swindon Road.
This application follows months of growing opposition to development plans not only for The Triangle but also a nearby site near Holbeche House. Residents and local representatives fear the cumulative impact of these proposals could bring over 1,700 new homes within a mile radius of Kingswinford’s centre, dramatically changing the character of the area.
Kingswinford MP Mike Wood expressed strong disapproval of the proposal, stating, “It is very disappointing to see such a large-scale planning application submitted for The Triangle between Kingswinford and Wall Heath. The local community firmly opposes these plans. Dudley has very limited green belt areas left, and it is vital we protect The Triangle for future generations.”
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For development to proceed, the land must be reclassified from green belt to ‘grey belt’ — a classification introduced by the Labour government aimed at boosting housebuilding. This reclassification requires the site to be deemed as offering limited contribution to the green belt’s primary role of preventing urban sprawl.
The applicant’s report from planning consultants Lavigne Lonsdale argues the site is already bordered by built-up areas and natural road boundaries, which would mean that development would not significantly harm the green belt’s functions. Therefore, they contend, the land could be reclassified as grey belt.
Opposition remains strong among local residents, many of whom are concerned about the strain more housing will place on infrastructure. Joanne Wells from nearby Wordsley commented, “There is no need for such a large new housing estate in this open green area on the edge of the countryside. Traffic and congestion are already problematic, and another 1,000+ cars from over 500 homes would only make it worse. Our schools and medical facilities are already stretched to capacity.”
The proposed development also includes plans for public open spaces, allotments, pedestrian and cycle routes, a shop, a community room, and landscaping, which the developers hope will contribute positively to the community’s infrastructure.
The planning application has prompted numerous objections, which are being posted on the council’s planning portal as public consultations continue.