PLANNING chiefs in Wyre Forest have set out reasons why they would refuse a huge housing development on farm land in Bewdley.

A proposal submitted by land speculator Gladman Developments for 195 homes on land off The Lakes Road, will be discussed at Wyre Forest District’s planning committee next week.

But the authority can no longer make the final decision on the plan after Gladman successfully lodged an appeal for non-determination against the council with the planning inspectorate – meaning the final decision will be taken by Whitehall.

This was despite Gladman themselves submitting additional information for consideration by officers during the process.

Instead, planners will set out the reasons why they would have thrown out the plan which in turn will form part of the council’s case to the planning inspectorate.

Gladman have stated that there is a need for more housing in Bewdley and made a commitment that 59 of the houses would be affordable.

But planners say Wyre Forest can already demonstrate a five-year plan for deliverable housing across the district. They also highlights issues including the impact on air quality in Bewdley and the effect on landscape and wildlife.

These concerns are echoed by local residents who launched a vociferous campaign against the plan and set up the Bewdley Says No to Gladman campaign group.

Chairman Rod Stanczyszyn said: “We welcome the opportunity to present our case next week.

“The support for our campaign remains steadfast, with hundreds of local residents, plus many from a wider area, regularly reminding us of their wish to save the fields and footpath.

“It is no exaggeration to say that the landscape and wildlife has a positive impact on social well-being and fulfils a profound need for access to open, green spaces.

“The area is entirely unsuitable for the extra traffic which would be generated. There would be an inevitable further degradation of air quality at the Welch Gate junction.

“There are limited services and local employment opportunities - the proposed development could in no way be classified as sustainable and can only have an adverse effect on Bewdley and its community.”

Wyre Forest MP Mark Garnier added: “Whilst there is no doubt that we can do with more housing in Wyre Forest, it should always be the case that this is done through consultation between the community and the planning department, as is underway now for the local plan.

“Gladmans is an example of an operator that games the rules without any regard to the community or needs.

“They are a cynical opportunist and they are absolutely and every way unwelcome in Wyre Forest. I am not only supporting the community to see off Gladmans, but also will work with the council to tie up these loopholes that give rise to organisations like Gladmans.”