OPPONENTS to plans to build 236 new homes on the ‘green lung’ separating Redditch from Mappleborough Green are being urged to re-submit their letters of objection to to Redditch Borough Council – and send them to Stratford District Council too.
The proposed development on land off Far Moor Lane is a cross boundary application for the erection of 236 homes with 207 homes in Redditch and 29 homes in Stratford district.
It’s being put forward by Morris Homes who’ve dubbed the site ‘Mappleborough Woods’ even though nearly all the trees will be axed.
The area is currently home to many native trees, as well as being a foraging site and home for eight species of bat and three red listed species of bird, deers, badgers, newts and lizards.
Campaigners say letters of objection to Redditch Borough Council have to be re-submitted as the terms of the application have changed.
In a leaflet being distributed to homes in Winyates Green and Mappleborough Green campaigners say: “The destruction of this woodland and its inhabitants would be environmentally devastating, as well as the significant impact another 236 homes would have on the already stretched amenities, public services and local roads.
“The site acts as a buffer between Mappleborough Green and Redditch and protects the villages rural identity.”
Local resident and Mappleborough Parish Councillor Maureen Berry said: “All the talk is about enhancing green space and how important the wellbeing of people is and here they want to chop down a wood full of trees that forms the natural barrier between Mappleborough Green and Redditch.
“The fact that letters have to be re-submitted to Redditch and then sent on again to Stratford speaks of a lack of cohesion. Residents are being kept in the dark.”
Letters can be submitted through the two authorities’ planning portal – reference: 21/00204/FUL for Stratford and 20/01650/FUL for Redditch.
Campaigners are also appealing for volunteers to deliver their leaflets – email: [email protected] if you can help.
