Controversial plans to build a housing development on contaminated land, in Woodsetton, has seen fierce opposition from the local Member of Parliament, Marco Longhi and residents.
Marco has met with residents and local councillors on several occasions to discuss their concerns about this development.
Marco Longhi said
“Just the history of this land should be enough to put any developer off building family homes on this land.
“Despite the contamination it has become home to an abundance of wildlife, including badgers, hedgehogs and bats. It is vital that we protect local biodiversity for our environment. Rather than homes I would like to see this form part of an urban forest for the whole community to benefit.
“I have written to the Environment Agency because I am very concerned about this site and the danger of old toxic material being released from the ground should the site be developed.
“I have asked the Council to extend the time period for objections should residents wish to. All objections must in by 19th October.”
Letter issued to local residents by Marco Longhi MP
Dear resident,
Re: Proposed development - P20/1306
You may be aware of potential plans to develop on the land that runs along Bourne Street. Along with many residents who contacted me, I oppose the proposed development. As the new Member of Parliament for Dudley North I want to make sure the planning department have the fullest picture and so I invite you submit your views.
I have contacted the Council and as a result they have agreed to extend the deadline for objections to 19th October. If you would like to object, please submit your objection via the following web address with this application number - P20/1306. If you have any difficulties, please let my office know.
https://www.dudley.gov.uk/resident/planning/planning-services/search-for-a-planning-application/
I have also written to the Environment Agency to raise concerns from residents about any plans for development on this contaminated site. In addition, Dudley Council have already confirmed the developments proposals layout is poor, the Highways agency are unable to support the development in its current form and the Coal Authority have advised it is a high risk area and intrusive site investigations will be needed before any building takes place.
I am challenging this position for several reasons: a long history of toxic waste being disposed on the site (this was confirmed by the Planning Inspectorate who confirmed a presence of heavy metals poly aromatic hydrocarbons and other chemical with asbestos as well as evidence of ground gas); the development conflicts with Government policy for climate change and biodiversity gain as the land is home to badgers (2 sets), hedgehogs, bats and other wildlife. As a member of Parliament’s Environment and Audit Select Committee, I take a keen interest in all these areas and would prefer the site to become part of an urban forest for the whole community to benefit.
Please do contact me with your views and with any questions you may have.
Yours sincerely
Marco Longhi MP
