Sandwell Local Plan Main Modifications Consultation

Object

Representation ID: 1750

Received: 27/03/2026

Respondent: Mrs Sara Lovell

Legally compliant? Yes

Sound? No

We reiterate previous comments made and maintain that there is sufficient evidence that the biodiversity value of this site/area is substantial/should be safeguarded. An appropriate local site assessment should be required to appropriately inform the local plan allocation. This site has long been identified as a Potential Site of Importance (PSI) and is part of a well connected network through a heavily urbanised landscape. Collectively, the wider area supports several important habitats and notable/protected species. It is our view that there is sufficient evidence to suggest the site comprises highly valuable (brownfield) habitat and therefore an assessment must be required.

Comment

Representation ID: 1751

Received: 27/03/2026

Respondent: Mrs Sara Lovell

The policy should explicitly acknowledge and make reference to the nature conservation designation of the canal in the Galton Valley area and the fact that this consist of an important ecological corridor in the borough. Any development should take these aspects into account and duly seek to safeguard and enhance the biodiversity value of the area.

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.

Object

Representation ID: 1754

Received: 27/03/2026

Respondent: Mrs Sara Lovell

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

We strongly object to this (new) allocation. This site is a know Potential Site of Importance (PSI) understood to have the potential to meet priority habitat definition. It is an extensive area of habitat on the site of former lime works. The habitat is has been described as reminiscent of an inland sand dune, containing an unusual assemblage of plants, showing a calcareous influence - Rare not just in the borough but elsewhere. A local site assessment should be carried out. It's adjacency to the canal corridor adds to its ecological significance. Site likely to meet SINC/SLINC designation.

Object

Representation ID: 1755

Received: 27/03/2026

Respondent: Mrs Sara Lovell

Legally compliant? No

Sound? No

We reiterate previous comments made and maintain that there is sufficient evidence that the biodiversity value of this site/area is substantial/should be safeguarded. An appropriate local site assessment should be required to appropriately inform the local plan allocation. This site has long been identified as a Potential Site of Importance (PSI) and is part of a well connected network through a heavily urbanised landscape. Collectively, the area supports several important habitats and notable/protected species. It is our view that there is sufficient evidence to suggest the site comprises highly valuable (brownfield) habitat and a local site assessment must be required.