Comment

Representation ID: 1752

Received: 27/03/2026

Respondent: Mrs Sara Lovell

We welcome the reference to nature conservation in the policy. Nevertheless, we believe that it could more strongly emphasise the critical importance/function of the canal as an ecological corridor. Elsewhere in the Black Country all canals are (mostly) Sites of Local Importance for Nature Conservation. This not being the case in Sandwell, it makes it crucial to provide that stronger emphasis. Development should take the substantial biodiversity value of the canal corridor into account and seek to safeguard/enhance it. We note that several protected species are present/use the corridor and therefore any development should abide by principles of no harm.