Agenda item

To consider the results of the consultation undertaken on the Smethwick to Birmingham Area Framework and Grove Lane Masterplan during October to December 2021.

Resolved:

1.1         That Cabinet consider the results of the consultation undertaken on the Smethwick to Birmingham Area Framework and Grove Lane Masterplan during October to December 2021 as set out in the Consultation Report.

1.2         That Cabinet approve the Area Framework and Grove Lane Masterplan as amended, and for both documents to be treated as a material consideration in the determination of future planning applications.

Consideration was given to the results of the consultation undertaken on the Smethwick to Birmingham Area Framework and Grove Lane Masterplan during October to December 2021.

Approval was sought for the Smethwick to Birmingham Area Framework and Grove Lane Masterplan documents, as amended, and for both documents to be treated as a material consideration in the determination of future planning applications.

The Chair of Economy, Skills, Transport and Environment Scrutiny Board sought further clarification on the plan with regards to the industrial buildings either side of the road on Cranford Street and Heath Street, as these spaces were unsightly for visitors driving into Sandwell or into Birmingham.

In response, the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Growth explained the vision for the wider Grove Lane area was to bring sites forward for residential development. As part of that process, buildings within the area would be assessed for their heritage value and consideration given to their reuse where physically and viably possible, and where it would contribute to the wider regeneration principles set out in the Masterplan. The buildings on Heath Street/ Cranford Street would be looked at once more detailed proposals come forward and in conjunction with other proposals set out in the plan such as improving walking and cycling connectivity.  However, as part of the redevelopment of the sites north and south of Cranford Street, it was not envisaged to retain the bridge spanning the road.

Reason for Decision

The Draft Smethwick to Birmingham Area Framework and Grove Lane Masterplan were presented to Cabinet in June 2021 for consultation.  However, prior to consultation being undertaken, amendments were requested from Birmingham City Council in the capacity of our joint partner for this project.  Following this revision, both documents were presented to Cabinet again on 29 September 2021 for authority to consult. 

It was also recommended that a further report be presented to Cabinet with the results of the consultation in due course. Consultation is now complete and both documents had been amended to take into account relevant amendments. This report requested that both documents be approved to assist with guiding decisions on future development proposals in the area.

Alternative Options Considered

Not progressing with the Masterplan for the Grove Lane area was discounted as the masterplan provided insight to developers and landowners in what type of development could positively contribute to the wider area regeneration. Lack of a masterplan might also lead to unconnected, piecemeal development that would lack cohesiveness and not provide for connectivity to the wider area and the creation of new, related communities. 

Not progressing with the Corridor Area Framework was also discounted as an option. This was because the Corridor Framework ensured consistency between the two local authorities within this important regeneration corridor in achieving the provision of good quality housing that was well connected to sustainable transport links, open space and the canal network.  The guiding principles also assisted in contributing to the vision for this area in creating a healthy place to live, work and visit and contributing to net zero and inclusive growth. Without the Area Framework to direct appropriate development for the opportunity sites and the related transport strategy to focus on sustainable transport, development within the corridor might fail to achieve the vision set out by the respective local authorities and partner agencies for the regeneration transformation of this area.

Agreed:-

(1)     that the results of the consultation undertaken on the Smethwick to Birmingham Area Framework and Grove Lane Masterplan during October to December 2021 as set out in the Consultation Report, be noted;

(2)     that the Area Framework and Grove Lane Masterplan as amended, be approved, and for both documents to be treated as a material consideration in the determination of future planning applications.