Planning inspector backs council plans to protect green belt

The authority has received a letter from Planning Inspector, Louise Nurser, outlining her thoughts on the Dudley Local Plan after it was submitted to government for examination.

In it, the inspector says she “concurs” with the council’s position that there should be no review of green belt boundaries. The inspector also backed the authority’s stance on protecting Corbett Meadow in Stourbridge from development by allocating the land as a local green space, saying it would “not undermine the aim of providing sufficient land for housing”.

The letter also reveals the inspector is satisfied that Dudley Council has met the “duty to co-operate” requirements in terms of working with neighbouring local authorities and that the plan is legally compliant.

Only a number of minor suggested modifications from the inspector are required for the plan to be found sound and become ready for approval. Following the inspector’s latest correspondence, the council will consult on a number of proposed modifications to the plan.

Councillor Simon Phipps, cabinet member for economy and infrastructure, said:

“This result is a vindication of everything this administration has done to protect our green belt over the last few years.

“I know this will delight residents from across the borough who are fortunate enough to enjoy the beautiful countryside we have on our doorstep. I am sure the ruling on Corbett Meadow will be also welcomed by the hundreds of campaigners who have battled to keep it green.

“The upcoming consultation on modifications will be the last hurdle before we can fully approve this plan.”