Plans for 18 new homes in Balsall Common are recommended for approval despite local objections about green belt impacts and infrastructure strain
Solihull: Proposed new homes in a village are moving forward despite local pushback. Rainier Developments Limited wants to build 18 homes at Catchems Corner, off Waste Lane in Balsall Common.
The application was submitted to Solihull Council in 2023. A final decision will be made by the planning committee next week. The developer plans to make nine of the homes affordable, with five for social rent and four for shared ownership.
This site is in Solihull’s green belt, which raises concerns about inappropriate development. However, the developer argues that the impact on the green belt is limited due to the site’s surroundings.
They noted that mature landscaping and the flat terrain would make the homes less visible. During the consultation, five objections were received, including from local councillor Andrew Burrow and Berkswell Parish Council.
Concerns included potential damage to the green belt’s openness, increased traffic on local roads, a lack of school places, and the homes not fitting the local character.
Despite these objections, Solihull Council planning officers recommend approval, citing limited harm to the green belt. They also mentioned a need for an education contribution of over £244,000 to support local schools.
Planning officers believe the benefits of affordable housing and economic growth outweigh the potential harms. The committee will discuss this application at their next meeting on Wednesday, February 5, starting at 6pm. The meeting is open to the public and will be streamed live on the council’s website.
