No

ID sylw: 107108

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Carol Regan

SG24 Hockley Heath Group - Object
No access to M40 South. Horrendous at rush hour to get onto the Stratford Road from the Old Warwick Road now.

No

ID sylw: 107143

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Helen Patten

The overdevelopment proposed under SG24 would irreparably damage Hockley Heath’s character, environment, infrastructure, and quality of life. It fails to demonstrate exceptional circumstances for Green Belt release. I urge you to remove SG24 from the local development plan. However, I do recognise that developments of homes is required, and instead propose working in partnership with Solihull Council to identify appropriate sites for low dwelling density developments.

No

ID sylw: 107147

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: John Kennelly

SG24 can not proceed as a strategic growth location in its current format
SG24 inclusion as a strategic growth centre can NOT proceed in its current format within the South Warwickshire Local Plan. We recognise that Hockley Heath has some facilities and can take on a small level of growth, however many of the plans, policies, frameworks have not been reviewed in enough detail or applied correctly. The unsustainable overdevelopment proposed under SG24 would irreparably damage Hockley Heath’s character, environment, infrastructure, and quality of life. It fails to demonstrate exceptional circumstances for Green Belt release, ignores significant viable alternatives and lacks the essential infrastructure planning required for sustainable development.
There are many other issues that arise due to the inappropriate selection of the sites. They represent further significant legal, environmental, sustainability and H&S issues which must be reviewed prior to agreeing the SWLP. SWLP have an obligation to deliver housing and release sites in the most sustainable way, which cannot be achieved via the current SWLP as there are clearly much better performing settlements.

No

ID sylw: 107150

Derbyniwyd: 05/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Fiona Tsang

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed plan in our neighbourhood. While I understand the need to grow, I believe that this project would have a detrimental impact on our community.
1. Changing the neighborhood - In some cases, people are concerned that development will change the neighborhood’s character.
2.Services - The village already has surface water drainage issues and the Stratford Road floods regularly during heavy rain. Further development would worsen this problem. Population increase will also put strain on local services, particularly roads, public transport, healthcare and schools.
3.All of the earmarked land is on the Green Belt, which should only be built on in exceptional circumstances.
4.The development is completely at odds with Solihull MBC's local plan which states that only small- scale development is appropriate for Hockley Heath.
5.Traffic - This development would significantly increase traffic on the A34, which already is congested, particularly when there are problems on the M40/ M42. All proposed developments would need to access the A34, significantly increasing the accident risk.
6.Environment - The development would harm wildlife and impact on biodiversity. The loss of green space would also impact significantly on the wellbeing of existing residents. Noise and safety impacts from construction. Pollution.
7.It would fundamentally alter the character of Hockley Heath, undermining its distinctiveness and rural identity.
The village does not have the infrastructure in terms of education, health and transport to sustain a development of this size.
8.Although the development falls within South Warwickshire, the burden of the new population in terms of schooling, transport, health, refuse collection would fall to Solihull, who have already opposed it.
In conclusion, I strongly urge you to reconsider this proposed housing development. While I recognize the need for growth, I believe that this project is simply not the right fit for our neighborhood.

Other

ID sylw: 107196

Derbyniwyd: 05/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

In terms of potential Strategic Growth Locations, the SG 24 Hockley Heath Group lies adjacent to the Solihull boundary, although this does not appear to be in the highest Priority Zone for development. It will be for Solihull MBC to consider the local implications of this.

No

ID sylw: 107246

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Solihull MBC

Strategic Growth Location SG24 Hockley Heath Group of sites:

The Preferred Options Version of the SWLP states that the majority of the strategic growth needs of the area will be met in Priority Areas 1 to 3. Hockley Heath is one of 24 strategic growth areas identified as having the potential to accommodate growth.

SMBC does not support the identification of sites at Hockley Heath as a strategic growth location, and strongly objects to its inclusion.
Hockley Heath is a small settlement located within Solihull, but closely bounded on three sides by the boundary with Stratford upon Avon and Warwick District Council. As a consequence, any proposals which focused significant growth within or adjacent to this settlement would have cross boundary implications. The existing settlement is small scale therefore significant development could affect the character and amenity of the existing settlement; and it does not have the scale of infrastructure needed to support the proposed development.
In response to the Issues and Options consultation in March 2023 SMBC identified the issue of potential growth related to a number of ‘call for sites’ submissions around Hockley Heath. At that time the dispersed growth option did not indicate the Hockley Heath area as an indicative location that may feature in this option. Nor was the village listed in the settlements considered under this option. The Council supported this position.
It was pointed out that to identify the settlement as a location for growth to take place in South Warwickshire would be considered to run contrary to the spatial strategy in Solihull’s plan. It would have a detrimental impact on the character of the village and would not be supported by the necessary infrastructure, a factor complicated by not being within the same local planning authority.
In the Solihull Local Plan Review the settlement had been identified in the spatial strategy as a rural settlement identified for just limited expansion. In accordance with the spatial strategy an allocation (in Solihull’s plan) to accommodate some 100 dwellings has been made for the settlement and it is considered that this fulfils the ability of the settlement to accommodate limited expansion. The Inspectors carrying out the examination of Solihull’s plan indicated that the plan’s spatial strategy was appropriate in principle.
The Local Plan Review was withdrawn in October 2024 and the Council has committed in the Local Development Scheme to the preparation of a new Local Plan Review. This review will be prepared in accordance with the Revised NPPF.
SMBC acknowledges that the strategic growth areas have been put forward for consultation purposes and that not all of these areas will be needed and taken forward to provide for the area’s growth needs over the plan period. At this stage these have been included in the preferred options document to explore the range of reasonable alternatives and further work will be undertaken prior to the publication of the Regulation 19 consultation to set out which will be allocated.
Some of the identified strategic growth locations including SG24 are located within the Green Belt. It is acknowledged that further evidence is being prepared to further consider the sustainability of the options. Stage 2 of the green belt assessment will provide more detailed consideration of areas considered for development including the contribution an area makes to green belt purposes and the impact on the wider green belt if this area was released. This evidence will enable a wider assessment of the most sustainable options for accommodating South Warwickshire’s housing and employment land needs. This will include whether there are sufficient non-Green Belt locations or whether there are clear sustainability to utilising green belt locations. This will form the basis of exceptional circumstances arguments to justify green belt release.
SMBC would reiterate the need to ensure that careful assessment of the sustainability of different options is undertaken and in the case of Green Belt locations to justify exceptional circumstances. The plan should ensure that the site selection process to finalise sites taken forward in the regulation 19 version of the plan reflects the up-to-date approach set out in the NPPF in relation to Green Belt. SMBC would welcome sufficient opportunity to review and comment on the evidence presented in the stage 2 Green Belt assessment particularly in relation to sites in the vicinity of Hockley Heath (SG24)
The plan states that within the strategic growth areas development will only be accommodated where it is of sufficient scale for significant infrastructure upgrades to be provided on site. We wish to reiterate earlier consultation responses that Hockley Heath is a small settlement with limited facilities and services; and SMBC does not consider there is sufficient evidence to demonstrate that this is the right location to focus development. SMBC consider that any proposals which focus growth on sites adjacent to Hockley Heath would have significant cross boundary implications for infrastructure delivery. Proposals would be likely to require Section 106 and CIL contributions for infrastructure and services that would be needed within the SMBC area. Such development would therefore need to align with the strategic growth vision for Solihull being progressed through the new Local Plan Review process.
If the South Warwickshire Plan is adopted with Hockley Heath identified as a strategic growth location, then the plan will need to acknowledge that the infrastructure supporting the development is likely to be within Solihull and mechanisms must be in place to ensure SMBC is the recipient of appropriate S106 monies and CIL receipts to enable appropriate infrastructure to be delivered. It is paramount that infrastructure needs are agreed with SMBC as they are materially affected. The Warwickshire IDP should recognise the Infrastructure need for the village and SMBC.

No

ID sylw: 107347

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Sara Shaw

The plans have already been rejected by Solihull council who are responsible for this district, this feels very underhanded to see you continuing with this proposal.

Currently this is a small rural village which will be destroyed by your proposals, we already have a heavy influx of traffic going through the main road and very little parking, already with the heavy downpours, we experience flooding and the local house on the A34 have water pump installed to pump out the water, increasing properties will increase flooding to more residents.

The proposed land is green belt land which we must protect and preserve to look after local wildlife and maintain a good level of air quality.

No

ID sylw: 107400

Derbyniwyd: 03/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Lapworth Parish Council

The lack of detailed information from Solihull MBC on any proposed developments in Hockley Heath (including infrastructure type, quantity and timings) impacts the ability to make truly informed decisions about SG24, although it is not felt that the area is suitable as a strategic growth site and it does not comply with the 20-Minute neighbourhood policy principally due its infrastructure limitations and its lack of sustainable public transport. As the plan is based on 20-Minute neighbourhoods and getting rid of dependence on cars, then that should rule out SG24 and C1.

Yes

ID sylw: 107435

Derbyniwyd: 16/02/2025

Ymatebydd: Moreton Morrell Parish Council

No objection

No

ID sylw: 107483

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Manjeet Kalyan

Objection to the principle of building new houses adjacent to Hockley Heath for the following reasons:

1. Surface Water Drainage Issues
2. Lack of Secondary School Provision
3. Poor Public Transport Links
4. Character of the Village
5. Maintaining a Green Buffer
6. Contradiction with SMBC's Local Plan
7. Traffic Congestion and Road Safety
8. Biodiversity and Environmental Impact
9. Lack of Economic Justification
10. Community Opposition and Consultation
11. Inappropriate Scale of Development
12. Limited Local Amenities
13. Lack of Sustainable Employment Opportunities
14. Landscape Sensitivity
15. Heritage and Conservation
16. Disproportionate Impact on a Small Community
17. Cumulative Impact with Other Developments
18. Conservation of the Countryside

Yes

ID sylw: 107502

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Palmer Family

Asiant : Newton LDP Limited

The landowner’s willingness for residential development to be delivered on this site is demonstrated through the submission of this representation and previous Call for Sites throughout the SWLP process. The site is available and could deliver housing in the early part of the plan period with no known significant constraints that would prevent the development coming forward. There is significant developer interest in this site.
The site is in a highly suitable and sustainable location for housing with good transport links and connections to areas of employment and services. Therefore, we believe that the site (SG24) should be allocated for residential development in the South Warwickshire Local Plan.

No

ID sylw: 107531

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Mr Colin Brown

Building on any of the green belt land surrounding Hockley Heath will have an irreversible impact on the wildlife in the immediate area and the wider county.
By constructing an additional 5000 properties around the existing footprint of Hockley Heath, this would effectively barricade current residents in.
Hockley Heath doesn’t have the infrastructure or transport links to support such a massive increase in properties/residents.
Transport links in Hockley Heath are not appropriate for such an increase in properties / residents.
Air and Water quality (Canals, Rivers & Tributaries) would suffer in and around the immediate area and beyond due to more cars being on the road locally emitting pollution, poor transport links will only encourage car use.
Water Table would be irreversibly altered when constructing the proposed properties, thus causing increased localised flooding risks.
Waste Disposal Services are not local so if an additional 5000 properties were to be built, recycling facilities would need to be nearby.
Light Pollution & Additional air pollution.
Hockley Heath only has 1 park, with an additional 5000 houses, this isn’t enough for families to enjoy green spaces safely.
There are brownfield and disused industrial sites in and around existing towns and city centres. These should be utilised first.

No

ID sylw: 107640

Derbyniwyd: 05/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Sonal Kailey

It is clear that SG24 cannot proceed on this scale. The processed plan is excessive and completely disproportionate to the size of the current village. I appreciate that much smaller developments may be feasible however these again would need to consider schooling, roads, healthcare facilities, etc. The plan fails to demonstrate exceptional circumstances for Green Belt and lacks the essential infrastructure planning required for suitable development.

No

ID sylw: 107650

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Hockley Heath Parish Council

DTC Response to the SWLP Preferred Options Local Plan (SG24):

General Comments:

HHPC objects to the inclusion of SG24 within the SWLP, for the reasons detailed in the remainder of this submission. The growth implied by Strategic Growth location 24 (SG24), adjacent to SMBC's boundary and specifically Hockley Heath, are significant to the Parish of Hockley Heath and poses significant risks and damage to the ecological integrity, biodiversity, infrastructure, environmental quality and rural character of the village and its surroundings. Strategic policy in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) highlights the importance of a green buffer between settlements. Removing these defined green gaps would create a continuous urban sprawl meaning that Hockley Heath would likely merge with nearby areas. SMBC's own Local Plan identified further development at Hockley Heath be limited to one site of 100 homes, given Hockley Heath does not have the facilities to accommodate further development. This went through public examination and the Inspectorate was satisfied with the selection SMBC made at that time with respect to Hockley Heath.

•Infrastructure - Limited public transport connections:

Buses serving Hockley Heath: 513/517 - one bus daily Monday to Friday (no service weekends) (Solihull-Redditch / Solihull - Lapworth) A7/A8 - one bus an hour in each direction (Solihull circular route - South) X20 - hourly weekdays (every two hours weekends) (Solihull - Coventry)

No rail station exists within Hockley Heath. The nearest rail station is Dorridge Station, situated 2.3 miles from the village centre. Parking at Dorridge Station is notably oversubscribed, with 84 free spaces and an additional 104 fee-paying overflow spaces, and is regularly oversubscribed after rush hour Monday to Friday.

Given the constraints of Hockley Heath, SG24 would essentially deliver a car-based impact on the village and surrounding areas, with little or no options to mitigate via access to public transport.

• Primary Care:

There are no primary care facilities (GP / pharmacy) and the nearest 1GP practices are 2Dorridge (2.4 miles), Lapworth (2.7 miles) and Tanworth in Arden (3.2 miles).

There is one NHS dental practice in Hockley Heath which serves the local community. This practice runs 4 clinics and reports being busy.

The nearest Pharmacies are Dorridge (2.3 miles) or Cheswick Green (2.8 miles).

• Secondary Care:

There is limited access to local secondary care services, with no emergency department at Solihull Hospital. The nearest Emergency Departments are Warwick Hospital 13 miles or Heartlands Hospital 12 miles. Warwick Hospital is a small district general hospital with circa 380 beds, this would not support such an increase in population locally.

• Education:

The Parish Council have serious concerns regarding school capacity and catchment areas. Has SG24 considered children living in Stratford District or Warwick District Council areas, particularly regarding the cross-boundary issue for those in the catchment of Solihull schools?

One Primary School in Hockley Heath (Admission Arrangements for 2025/2026) Tudor Grange Primary Academy, Hockley Heath for 2-11-year-olds - capacity 252 (published admission number for Reception Year is 30) Nearest High Schools (Admission Arrangements for 2025/2026): Arden Academy, Knowle (3.2 miles) for 11-18-year-olds - capacity 1488 (published admission number for Year 7 is 300) Tudor Grange Academy, Solihull (5.2 miles) for 11-18-year-olds - capacity 1700 (published admission number for Year 7 is 280)

• Traffic:

Regular traffic congestion throughout the village, and significant traffic congestion when the M40 / M42 is closed given the A4300's status as designated relief route for these motorways.

In addition to the A4300, Hockley Heath is served by four significant access routes (Spring Lane, Aylesbury Road, Old Warwick Road and School Road) all of which suffer from traffic congestion (and in the case of School Road, flooding). This would be significantly worsened by SG24-scale development.

Development on greenbelt land requires 50% of housing to be affordable. Given that SWLP SG24 has highlighted greenbelt land for development, and being car-based developments, has analysis been carried out as to how those in affordable housing, who may not own their own vehicle, would travel (given the poor public transport links as highlighted earlier)?

• Ecology and Biodiversity:

Loss of biodiversity and habitat destruction. The proposed developments would destroy hedgerows, woodlands and grassland - removing key habitats for birds, bats, newts, hedgehogs and pollinators. Fragmentation of wildlife corridors, isolating species and potentially reducing their ability to migrate, feed and reproduce. Threating protected species - bats, newts, badgers. SG24 implies significant reduction is farmland. Several sites within SG24 are in active agricultural use. SG24 presents a significant loss of amenity value associated with the area surrounding Hockley Heath. There is insufficient detail in SWLP relating to SG24 on how access to public rights of way and open spaces more generally would be preserved.

• Environmental:

Increase in flood risk - SG24 fails to recognise the existing significant surface water flooding issues present in Hockley Heath. Severn Trent acknowledge this; however, their drainage upgrade isn't currently planned until 2030-31. Surface water currently drains into a local brook, and there are numerous news reports in the public domain relating to serious flooding events in the village centre https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands- news/watch-amazing-moment-man-goes-14715705 SG24 would need to integrate with an existing sewerage system which is already over capacity. There is little or no reference to the underpinning environmental / infrastructure investment SG24 would require to be viable. Residents have reported foul and drainage water flooding in gardens, with frequent ingress into properties. Several properties most impacted have had to install flood defences. As stated above, SG24 would be a predominantly car-based development with an associated increase in traffic related impacts (noise and pollution) impacting human and ecological wellbeing. It is difficult to see how SG24 supports the national drive to Net Zero, a legal requirement, and South Warwickshire's own "Low Carbon South Warwickshire 2030" plan.

Given SG24 Hockley Heath would be predominantly car-based developments, the new sites would need adequate and appropriate access points connecting to existing road infrastructure to make permanent alterations to public highways under Section 278 agreements. Has consideration been given in the SWLP in relation to SG24 and the cross-boundary implications?

• Conclusion:

The Parish Council strongly objects to the proposed developments of SG24. The proposals would:

Erode the distinct identity of the village Impact negatively on the ecology and biodiversity Contribute and lead to a worsening of urban sprawl Add traffic to an already gridlocked village Exacerbate and increase instances of surface water flooding during periods of rainfall

Other

ID sylw: 107674

Derbyniwyd: 26/02/2025

Ymatebydd: Shakespeare Line Rail User Group

The rail system holds the key to facilitating responsible housing expansion, particularly in areas surrounding both new and existing stations. However, for rail to fulfil this transformative role, it must be underpinned by strong passenger service levels and seamless connectivity to central metropolitan areas.

If the SWLP is to permit these spatial developments, it must commit to requiring investment in the rail infrastructure. This not only supports sustainable living environments but also ensures that we can effectively manage future growth while safeguarding our communities and the environment.

The South Warwickshire Local Plan must resolutely prioritise securing investment where there is spatial and/or large-scale development to ensure there is no diminution in existing services while crucially enable a dynamic and interconnected future.

Without investment in the rail infrastructure (which must include both capital infrastructure and services) the two areas defined as SG23 and SG24 are opposed.

No

ID sylw: 107700

Derbyniwyd: 03/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Lewis Jones

Residents of Hockley Heath, part of Solihull Borough and the Meriden Parliamentary Constituency, have voting rights to influence local decisions within local administrative boundaries. South Warwickshire Council’s inclusion of SG24 in its Local Plan bypasses these residents' democratic rights, as most new developments fall outside their constituency. Other communities are reportedly pushing for SG24 to absorb more housing to protect their own areas.

The proposed development would drastically alter Hockley Heath, increasing its size and population sevenfold, overwhelming local roads, schools, and services. The A3400, already congested, would face severe traffic issues, especially during M42 diversions. Flood risks would rise due to the area's high water table and increased surface runoff. Local schools and healthcare services are already at capacity, and new residents would not contribute council tax to Solihull. Emergency services would be split between two jurisdictions, creating confusion. The use of the Hockley Heath name for SG24 is opposed by residents. Legal challenges are likely, particularly regarding the reclassification of Green Belt land, potentially delaying the plan and undermining attempts to shift housing allocations from other areas to SG24.

No

ID sylw: 107703

Derbyniwyd: 01/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Charlotte and Craig Harrodine

Nifer y bobl: 2

I am opposed to SG24. The area is currently a tranquil haven of nature, wildlife, fields and space. For many residents the peaceful rural character was a major reason we moved to the area. For the physical and mental health of ourselves and our families. The plans would destroy the habitat of many creatures, tear up tree and plant life and impact biodiversity.

Blythe Valley - an area of huge development - is not far from Hockley Heath. We do not wish to ‘join up’ with Solihull and we do not want to lose the feel of our village. The proposals are unfair, disrespectful and short-sighted. Housing should be spread between many villages at a small scale rather than being concentrated in a small area.

Even with small-scale development there would need to be serious consideration of impacts on local roads. School Road leading towards Wedges Bakery is unfit for purpose. This road is deteriorating week by week. Building work would need to take into account existing traffic, school pupil numbers, water drainage, parking, medical services and recreation spaces.

No

ID sylw: 107704

Derbyniwyd: 01/03/2025

Ymatebydd: David and Margaret Howie

Nifer y bobl: 2

The proposed development is ridiculous.

I am aware of the phrase” not in my back yard” but this is isn't a yard it’s a mile wherever you look.

There is no infrastructure to support any further development.

The Stratford road is busy enough and when the motorway is congested, which it frequently is, Hockley Heath is at a standstill.

Many years ago a bypass for Hockley Heath was considered for this very reason.
Any development would further add to the congestion and take place on land where a bypass could be built.

There is one small school, no secondary school, no Doctors or health centre, no train station, few shops.
Whilst the development is in South Warwickshire I don’t see that South Warwickshire have any of the infrastructure to cope, and this would mean thousands of children commuting, the opposite of what we need.

As soon as the Labour Party is thrown out then any plans now will be overturned anyway.

Green belt is green belt for a reason.

No

ID sylw: 107706

Derbyniwyd: 04/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Lois Wynn

I object to site SG24. I am a long-time resident with family who live in the village and Lapworth. I am concerned about the scale of development and the flawed justifications. There are other potential sites which perform better than SG24. The site does not meet the sustainable development requirements outlined in the SWLP so the proposals are legally and ethically indefensible.

There are no 'exceptional circumstances' to justify development of this Green Belt site. The SWLP has ignored viable alternatives such as redevelopment of alternative brownfield sites and underutilized commercial spaces. The canal clearly cannot function as a defensible boundary with the removal of Green Belt. Several proposed sites are located beyond the canal. The scale of the allocation is disproportionate and will erode the village's identity and undermine local cohesion

Analysis of the wide-ranging impacts on character, environment and biodiversity has been inadequate. The area is ecologically diverse, particularly along the canal’s green corridors. I have witnessed deer, badgers and hedgehogs in my garden. Bats, insects and moths thrive in the coppices and woods. The SWLP does not meet the NPPF's requirement to conserve and enhance the natural environment and it does not take a strategic approach to enhancing natural capital. There is no credible mitigation plan, the environmental assessments are outdated, and additional traffic will increase air and noise pollution.

Hockley Heath's roads, schools, and healthcare facilities are already stressed and the SWLP fails to provide realistic solutions or mitigations for the impacts of large-scale development. Many local roads are single-lane with no pedestrian access, and rely on single-lane canal bridges. It is unrealistic to widen roads as this would require purchases of small pieces of land from large numbers of private properties. Hockley Heath has a single landlocked primary school already struggling with capacity and traffic congestion. I understand there are no school spaces in the local area for children reaching secondary school age. The SWLP does not set out a strategy for how education provision will be improved. The area is already beyond national thresholds for travel times to hospitals and A&E services and cannot handle increased demand for doctors and dentists. There has been no coordination with Solihull Council whose Plan indicates Hockley Heath is suitable only for small-scale development. The additional burdens of development will fall on Solihull Council.

Hockley Heath experiences severe surface water flooding, particularly along arterial routes which would serve SG24; School Road, Spring Lane, Cut Throat Lane and the A3400. Drainage infrastructure is insufficient to support additional development. The SWLP has not updated flood risk assessments to reflect the current challenges, has not provided a clear drainage mitigation strategy (particularly for the SG24 developments, some of which are on waterlogged land), and has not considered the cumulative impact of adding impermeable surfaces to high-risk flood zones. Hockley Heath has some facilities and can take a small level of growth but cannot proceed as a strategic growth location.

No

ID sylw: 107707

Derbyniwyd: 27/02/2025

Ymatebydd: Pamela May

I strongly oppose the proposed future development plans for Hockley Heath, which threaten to destroy green belt land, harm biodiversity, and overburden local infrastructure. The plans disregard Solihull Council's rejection of the housing and conflict with local policies advocating small-scale development. They will increase traffic, flooding, and strain essential services, negatively impacting residents’ quality of life and environment. I believe these proposals are driven by profit rather than community benefit, and they threaten the village’s character, safety, and residents' human rights. Immediate action is needed to protect our green belt and community.

No

ID sylw: 107711

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Nicola Hamilton

I wish to submit my opposition to the plans to bills thousands of homes in Hockley Heath village.
I have resided in this village on and off for the last 20 years. I have witnessed how growth from other villages has spilled over and already caused serious issues.
The flooding that occurs now in adverse weather has caused roads to completely shut down and become impassable , not to mention what this has done to the land and gardens.
The traffic has seen a significant increase especially on School Road where the village school sits recently, a young child almost hit by a car due to the congestion .
Whilst on the subject of the school, I have been victim to 2 children being unable to attend the same state secondary school due to over subscription already in the village, cant fathom how building 5000+ more homes will cater for the education of children moving in ?
As you are obviously aware this land is greenbelt and although not an expert in environmental issues, I am under no Illusion that this will have undoubtedly and negative impact especially as this land has been earmarked to be built on in exceptional circumstances only.
I am happy to discuss this massive father and would like to be kept up at eight with the plans.

Other

ID sylw: 107713

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Lianne Griffiths

I am writing to formally oppose the inclusion of SG24 within the SWLP.
I am a local Hockley Heath resident, having lived in the village for 15 years

I feel that the planning proposed is of a ridiculous scale that will impact the village significantly and we affect the lives of so many of the residents that chose to live here for the village as it is.
There appears to be little thought put into how this could impact such a small village and how the area can even cope with it. Where there are so many other areas that are a lot more set up for building of this scale.
There are so many areas of concern and upset that I cause me to propose against a plan of this scale.
I am not adverse to development but this amount I feel is so detrimental.

As a resident on the Stratford Road that walks 2-3 times a day. I am already finding daily difficulty in crossing the Stratford Road due to how busy it has become in my opinion since the development of Blythe Valley.
The increased amount of traffic through the village would be horrific.
And a huge safety concern. I already feel we are just waiting for an accident to happen.

The impact on the local wildlife is one of my biggest concerns.
Again as a daily walker I see a lot of bats dusk and dawn. Deer most days over the fields as well as hearing owls, woodpeckers and seeing birds of prey. Alongside the smaller birds, foxes, and other wildlife they are all going to be killed off. And this is just the most upsetting of it all. The scale of the project and you need to take into account what solihull council are proposing also is clearing this habitat for these wildlife and we are losing acres and acres of green belt.

These are my 2 major concerns. There are so many more but the reality is that we would be losing our village and making a town without any significant infrastructure to support it.

Please add this email to your many objections to the proposed plans

No

ID sylw: 107732

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Scott Luxmore-Brown

SG24 inclusion as a strategic growth centre can NOT proceed in its current format within the South Warwickshire Local Plan. We recognise that Hockley Heath has some facilities and can take on a small level of growth, however many of the plans, policies, frameworks have not been reviewed in enough detail or applied correctly. The unsustainable overdevelopment proposed under SG24 would irreparably damage Hockley Heath’s character, environment, infrastructure, and quality of life. It fails to demonstrate exceptional circumstances for Green Belt release, ignores significant viable alternatives and lacks the essential infrastructure planning required for sustainable development.

There are many other issues that arise due to the inappropriate selection of the sites. They represent further significant legal, environmental, sustainability and H&S issues which must be reviewed prior to agreeing the SWLP. SWLP have an obligation to deliver housing and release sites in the most sustainable way, which cannot be achieved via the current SWLP as there are clearly much better performing settlements.

No

ID sylw: 107775

Derbyniwyd: 05/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Jonathan Davies

Green Belt / Environmental Impact:
The proposed development is on the green belt, a protected area of land introduced to protect from urban sprawl. All the plan does is merge the Hockley Heath village with other local villages. Added to this we already have a shortage of farm land in the country and are a net importer of commodities. Building on green belt in preference to brownfield sites makes no sense whatsoever. The fields are filled with a plethora of animals and flora and fauna. There are various breads of dear, owls and a multitude of bird life as well natural habitats for various species of plants. When its gone its gone and the idea of destroying this wildlife is frankly criminal. I have not seen any evidence of a plan or evidence of any considerations of the wildlife in these areas.

Traffic:
The Stratford Road that runs through the heart of Hockley Heath village, is already at its limit with huge amount of traffic going through the village daily especially if as it is frequently is the M42/M40 has had an accident.

Size of development:
The size and number of homes being proposed is completely ridiculous compared to the current size of the village which is already at its limit. Today there are approximately 700 homes and the school, dentist, shops, medical facilities are already at their limit. Making the ‘village’ quadruple in size is would put enormous pressure on the village.

Impact on Local Communities:
SG24 will alter the Character of my community. The proposed development would represent over development, increasing the size of Hockley Heath dramatically leading to loss of local authority and reduced community cohesion, particularly given the proximity of different local authority boundaries.

No

ID sylw: 107781

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Mr Robert and Helen Woods

Objection to SG24 on the grounds that it would affect our wellbeing and that of our neighbours. The loss of green space would significantly impact the wildlife including the deer, six of which were in the fields behind our house this morning. It would have a detrimental affect on those that use the use the footpaths and woodland on a regular basis to walk dogs , ride horses and generally keep healthy.
Aylesbury Road is already a busy thoroughfare for traffic which would be increased considerably by this proposal to increase homes from 700 to up to 5000! Causing added danger to motorists, cyclists and walkers/runners. The surrounding lanes are already in a state of disrepair in places and extra vehicles would merely multiply this.
The village definitely doesn't have the infrastructure in terms of education and health to sustain this size of development given that children are already unable to obtain a place at their feeder secondary school due to oversubscription!
This proposal would destroy the character of the village and its rural identity and is completely different to the small scale development deemed to be appropriate.
It appears that this development would lead to conflict between Solihull MBC and Warwickshire CC re funding of the infrastructure in the future-where would that leave us as residents?

No

ID sylw: 107804

Derbyniwyd: 03/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Guy Mcdonald

I am writing to formally object to the proposed development at site SG24, Hockley Heath, as outlined in the South Warwickshire Local Plan (SWLP).
1. Environmental Impact: The development is expected to result in significant adverse impacts on waste generation. The assessment indicates that all 24 Strategic Growth Locations (SGLs) with residential capacity, including SG24, will increase household waste significantly. This is concerning given the limited data available, which suggests that the waste management infrastructure may not be equipped to handle such an increase efficiently.
2. Infrastructure Strain: The proposed development will likely place additional strain on local infrastructure, including transport links and local amenities. The current accessibility to public transport and essential services is limited, which could lead to increased traffic congestion and pollution as residents rely more on personal vehicles.
3. Questionable Deliverability: The deliverability of the site is questionable, as noted in the SWLP's assessment. Without clear assurances of deliverability, the proposal remains speculative and could lead to incomplete or stalled development, negatively impacting the community and environment.
4. Impact on Local Character: The scale of the proposed development is not in keeping with the character of Hockley Heath. The introduction of a large number of new homes could alter the village's rural charm and community spirit, which are highly valued by current residents.
 In conclusion, I urge the council to reconsider the proposed development at site SG24, taking into account the significant environmental, infrastructural, and community impacts.

No

ID sylw: 107809

Derbyniwyd: 03/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Christopher Harding

I am writing to formally register my opposition to the excessive and overwhelming housing development planned under the SG24 proposals in the Hockley Heath area. This matter is of critical importance to all residents who cherish their current environment, as well as the character and sustainability of our village.

In addition to the detrimental impact on the natural historical habitats, I would like to highlight specific concerns that will have a major impact on the existing environment:

Flooding Issues: The area is already prone to frequent flooding, and the loss of green spaces, which act as natural water absorbents, will exacerbate this issue. Increased hard surfaces from new developments will lead to greater run-off, existing homes and infrastructure at risk.
Loss of Community Spirit: Hockley Heath is known for its strong sense of community, fostered by our green spaces where residents gather and connect. Developing on the green belt will reduce these communal areas and will alienate current residents, diminishing the community atmosphere we cherish.
Biodiversity Loss: The green belt supports various species of flora and fauna as listed below. Development will threaten these ecosystems, disrupting local wildlife and diminishing our area's natural beauty.
Increased Traffic and Strain on Resources: More housing without adequate public transport (we have no railway station) will lead to increased traffic congestion, complicating access and increasing travel times.
Infrastructure: Our local services, including schools and healthcare, will struggle to accommodate the influx of new residents.

No

ID sylw: 108035

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Sarah Walters

The scale of the proposed development risks overwhelming the existing community and I go into detail here with all of my concerns.
1. Surface Water Drainage Issues
Current drainage problems in Hockley Heath highlight the unsuitability of large-scale development without substantial infrastructure improvements.
2. Lack of Secondary School Provision
Hockley Heath lacks a secondary school, and neighbouring schools are already at capacity, making it unsustainable to meet the educational needs of an additional 2,000 households.
3. Poor Public Transport Links
Hockley Heath is not close to a train station and has limited public transport, increasing reliance on cars and contravening the aim to promote sustainable travel.
4. Character of the Village
A large scale development would fundamentally alter the character of Hockley Heath, a small village, undermining its distinctiveness and rural identity.
5. Maintaining a Green Buffer
Keeping a green buffer between Dorridge and Hockley Heath prevents urban sprawl and protects the individual identities of these settlements.
6. Contradiction with SMBC’s Local Plan

7. Traffic Congestion and Road Safety
. A development of this size will significantly increase traffic on the A3400 and surrounding roads, worsening congestion and raising safety concerns in a village already experiencing issues with speeding and heavy vehicles.
8. Biodiversity and Environmental Impact
The proposed site risks harming wildlife habitats in and around the village, failing to meet this requirement.
9. Lack of Economic Justification
Hockley Heath is not a major employment centre, meaning most new residents would commute, adding strain to transport infrastructure and working against sustainable development goals.
10. Community Opposition and Consultation
11. Inappropriate Scale of Development
. Building over 2,000 homes in Hockley Heath, a small village, is disproportionate to its current size and infrastructure, putting undue strain on local services and facilities.
12. Limited Local Amenities
Hockley Heath currently has very few local amenities, such as shops, healthcare facilities, or leisure services, to support a significant population increase.
13. Lack of Sustainable Employment Opportunities
The village does not have enough local employment opportunities to sustain a large residential development.
14. Landscape Sensitivity
Hockley Heath lies within a semi-rural area with a high quality landscape that contributes to its character.
15. Heritage and Conservation
The area around Hockley Heath has historic buildings and conservation areas that could be impacted by large-scale development.
16. Disproportionate Impact on a Small Community
Introducing over 2,000 new homes would more than double the population, altering the village’s character and sense of community/identity.
17. Cumulative Impact with Other Developments
The South Warwickshire Local Plan should consider the cumulative impact of this proposal alongside other developments in neighbouring areas.
18. Conservation of the Countryside
. The development of SG24 would damage the rural landscape that defines Hockley Heath and its surroundings.

No

ID sylw: 108036

Derbyniwyd: 06/03/2025

Ymatebydd: David Williams

I am concerned that I have been asked to respond to Stratford-on-Avon and Warwick Councils when Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC) is the responsible authority for delivering council services in Hockley Heath. I understand that SMBC has its own Local Plan, which conflicts with the Strategic Development Plan (SWLP).
The village of Hockley Heath lacks the necessary infrastructure to support a development of this scale. The village has a single-class entry infant and junior school that caters to the education needs of its residents. Additionally, the estate is accessible via School Road, which frequently floods during moderate rainfall, as do the adjacent fields and the Stratford Road through the village. Further developments would exacerbate these issues.
Heavy traffic congestion has become a persistent problem in the village, particularly during periods of congestion on the M42 and M40 motorways. These developments are likely to further exacerbate this issue.
Furthermore, the proposed development would transform Hockley Heath from a village into a small town. However, this small town would lack the necessary infrastructure to support its. Therefore, I oppose this plan and believe that Solihull MBC’s Local Plan, which emphasises only small-scale development, should be given greater consideration.

No

ID sylw: 108052

Derbyniwyd: 27/02/2025

Ymatebydd: Valerie Blackburn

I consider this overbearing and overreaching by SWC, when SMBC and Hockley Heath residents will be responsible for increased, burdensome Council Tax to support extra schooling, transport, health and bin collections and not Warwickshire residents. This is unacceptable, unethical and unfair.

Such proposed plans are in direct contrast to SMBC plans which states that ‘small-scale developments are only appropriate for Hockley Heath.’ The South Warwickshire Plan would drastically alter the identity of the village to the detriment and environmental health of its residents.

Flooding will obviously increase with poor drainage due to ground coverage by new housing developments to be built upon a clay soil base, which increases flood risk. Does SWC have unbiased research and evidence that the proposed developments will not affect Hockley Heath adversely? Are there plans in place for overflow barriers or levees to prevent flooding? Are House Builders required to build such protection into their developments before SWC sign off such developments?

Electrical power cuts are frequent in Hockley Heath. I have had five interruptions in 16 months, one lasting over six hours.

A huge, future increase in traffic numbers and air pollution from a rapid rise in vehicle numbers along an already congested A34, particularly when there are problems on the M40 and M42 is already very apparent.
One local Primary Academy does not have extra places for up to 5000 new homes, with families that may have children. Do you have plans for building new schools to accommodate the increased population?

Hockley Heath does not have a medical practice. Is there to be one provided by SWC under the new housing developments?

This is a designated Green Belt area, which should only be built upon in exceptional circumstances. I do not consider these developments to warrant an acceptance by SWC as SMBC have already rejected extensive plans.