A plan to build new homes in a Solihull village has been given the go-ahead from Solihull planners. 

Applicant Rainier Developments Limited originally applied to build 18 homes on land at Catchems Corner, off Waste Lane in Balsall Common, in 2023. 

The application went in front of Solihull Council planning committee's latest meeting. 

The applicant has committed to nine of the units being affordable – five provided as social rent with four as shared ownership. 

There were objections raised about the scheme during a public consultation on the plans held in January.

And during the public speaking section of the meeting Berkswell Parish councillor Richard Drake said: "The parish council; and the majority of local residents are resigned to significant new housing in Balsall Common over the coming years.

"As a council and community we fear being overwhelmed with piecemeal developments. 

"This application sets a worrying precedent for other sites in Balsall Common and across Solihull borough."

But during the members' debate committee chairman, Councillor Bob Grinsell, said: "Am I right in saying we have this application before us and we must make decisions on this application alone." 

"Yes you do chairman," planning officer Lawrence Osbourne replied.

Councillor Sardul Marwa said: "Building this – aren't we setting a precedent to open the floodgates for other developers in the area (to build on green belt land)?

"That's my concern." 

The officer replied: "This does not set a precedent – each case has to be considered on its merits."

The debate moved on to whether the Balsall Common land could be judged grey belt – a new term the government says covers 'poor quality' green belt land for possible areas of construction.

Councillors heard promised further guidance on grey belt is still yet to be published by the government.

Councillor Edward Fitter said: "If there hasn't been any clear guidance given to us (from the government) – how can we be voting?"  

Mr Osbourne said they had assessed the land and determined it to be grey belt land.

"As decision makers it is for you to determine whether you believe that to be the case or not," he said.

Councillor Dave Pinwell asked for confirmation that even if councillors judged it to be green belt, officers still recommended the scheme was approved.

Mr Osbourne said that was correct saying officers had found the benefits of the scheme outweighed any harm to the green belt.

When the chairman moved to the vote seven councillors voted in favour with one against. 

Permission was granted by the committee subject to conditions and the completion of a section 106 agreement.

The meeting was held at the Civic Suite on February 5.