In a decisive 10-minute session, Solihull Council’s planning committee unanimously approved a new housing development in Hampton In Arden, reflecting overwhelming local endorsement. The proposal, submitted by BDW Trading Ltd and Packington Estate Enterprises, aims to construct 26 homes on grey belt land off Lapwing Drive, with half designated as affordable housing.
The land in question, classified as grey belt—green belt land deemed suitable for development—sparked considerable community interest. During public consultation, the project attracted 90 letters of support, contrasted by a single objection. Residents expressed that the development would provide crucial opportunities for first-time buyers and address the need for affordable homes, alongside promising financial contributions to local services via a section 106 agreement.
Savills, the planning agents, emphasized the project’s merits in their application statement, noting, “There are significant benefits to this application which are sufficient to outweigh any potential harm that may arise from the proposed development. Therefore, the application should be approved without delay.”
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Council chairman Bob Grinsell highlighted the rare level of support for a green belt project, while Councillors Prish Sharma and Mark Wilson praised the thoughtful design and the borough’s pressing housing demand. Councillor Dave Pinwell endorsed the proposal, citing the comprehensive report and its positive implications.
Following the discussion, councillors unanimously voted in favor, subject to agreed conditions and finalization of the section 106 agreement. The approval took place during the meeting held at the Civic Suite on February 11, marking a significant step in addressing local housing needs within green belt parameters.