More than 100 new homes in Balsall Common has been approved – disappointing locals who opposed the plans.

Richborough Estates put forward the scheme to build on land at Frog Lane as long ago as October 2023.

The application for outline planning permission finally went before Solihull Council planning committee's latest meeting on Wednesday, March 5. 

It applied for 110 homes, including affordable homes, as well as pedestrian/cycle access from Frog Lane, children's play areas and an ecological area, and demolition of existing homes on the site.

But objections were made by residents when a consultation was held in January. 

In the public speaking section of the meeting, Anthony Pimm, representing Balsall Street East residents, said they were "strongly objecting". 

"This is a natural green belt area which would be completely spoilt by an urban development of this nature, destroying the ecology and introducing additional noise, pollution and loss of privacy for neighbouring properties," he said.

Richard Drake, Balsall Common parish councillor, said: "We are resigned to the fact there will be a significant increase in housing and the Frog Lane site will be developed. 

advertisement

"We want these developments to be as good as they can be and improve our area, not detract from it."

David Barnes, the agent for the applicant, stressed the application was for outline permission, and issues such as the design would come back before the committee at a later date. 

"Highways officers have raised no technical objections to the proposed junction (from Balsall Street East)," he said.

"We have been requested to provide contributions towards healthcare and education to provide additional capacity, and these have been agreed to be paid."

During the committee's debate, issues were raised about the proposed junction. 

Cllr Dave Pinwell said: "I have been a victim of passing through Balsall Street East as the primary school was full of parents waiting to pick up their young ones.

"There was a string of cars parked up and chaos ruled at the time."

Coun Bob Grinsell, chairman of the committee, said: "We are talking about a potential 110 properties. 

advertisement

"Two cars minimum they are going to be using those cars to go to work and come home. 

"That's 440 movements before deliveries, refuse, emergency vehicles.

"In an ideal world I would have said to the developer buy another house further down the road and have an in and an out."

The chairman added he would want to see starters homes for local people.

Planning officer Mark Andrews said developer contributions could help them improve bus services in Balsall Common, avoiding the need for car journeys.      

Mr Andrews added the site was considered grey belt by officers – a new concept identifying low-quality green belt land that can be built on.  

Approval was given to the site after six councillors voted in favour, one against and two abstentions. 

Councillors also agreed to add an informative to encourage the applicant to include starter homes in the reserved matters application.

advertisement