PLANNING inspectors examining Solihull’s Local Plan have raised concerns over what they describe as a number of ‘significant’ issues.
These principally involved the authority’s ability to deliver its planned 2,240 new homes on the NEC site within the required timescale.
The NEC development forms a major element of the overall housing supply in the Plan, and would be by far the largest single site in terms of dwelling numbers they say.
However one sticking point is that Solihull’s Plan anticipates completions at the NEC site from 2026/27 onwards, with 217 done in the first year of delivery.
However the inspectors questioned whether this is possible.
In a letter to Solihull MBC they say: “On the basis of the evidence and information currently before us, we are not able to conclude that the site is deliverable.
“Furthermore, whilst we are satisfied that in principle the site is developable, there is currently insufficient basis to conclude that the annual rate and overall scale of housing anticipated in the plan period is realistic.”
They also want to see the timescale of the Plan extended to 2036/37 to bring it into line with national planning policy.
Councillor Andy Mackiewicz, whose portfolio covers planning and housing, said: “I welcome the Inspectors’ letter.
“They have now set us the challenge of producing more evidence to support the NEC’s masterplan proposals and suggested we also consider the time period the plan covers.
“We will work closely with the NEC to consolidate their proposals to demonstrate to the Inspectors that the scheme is deliverable and within the timescales envisaged.
“The Local Plan is a key strategic document charting the next decade of growth and development in the borough.
“So it is vital we have a legal and sound plan to ensure that as a democratically elected organisation, we continue to have control over the planning process; making sure the right development takes place at the right place, and in the right way.”
