SMETHWICK Action Plan, Submission Document October 2007

Smethwick Area Action Plan - Submission Document October 2007

Statement of Compliance

(Pre-Submission Consultation Statement under Regulation 28)

Statement of Community Involvement

1. The Council adopted its Statement of Community Involvement in January 2007, after most of the stages of community involvement on the Smethwick AAP had been completed. However, the AAP consultation which was undertaken followed all of the requirements which were eventually adopted. In any case, the AAP process achieved the minimum requirements in Regulations.

Consultation under Regulation 25 (pre-submission consultation)

2. The Issues and Options stage of the Smethwick Area Action Plan, as set out in the approved Sandwell Local Development Scheme, began in 2005. However, prior to this, there was a period of preparatory work based on the Sandwell Unitary Development Plan (UDP), which was adopted in April 2004. The Smethwick Town Plan set out the land use context for Smethwick Town, analysed the relevant planning issues based on the Adopted UDP, and identified parts of Smethwick where it might be necessary for Area Action Plans to be prepared in future. The Smethwick Town Plan was approved by the Cabinet Member for Environment & Transport on 18 May 2004 as the basis for further examination of the issues with the Town Team and other key partner agencies.

3. The Smethwick Town Plan was presented to Smethwick Town Committee in May 2004 as part of the process of front-loading the Area Action Plan process. Sandwell’s Town Committees are appointed to involve, consult and represent the community on local issues and on the various policies and strategies of the Council; to consider and to determine the allocation of the local area budget; and to be consulted by the Executive and by the Council, as appropriate, on such matters as major developments, changes to local services and facilities and traffic management issues. The presentation concentrated on the proposal to prepare a Town Plan for Smethwick, in the area broadly bounded by Black Patch Park, Victoria Park, Windmill Lane and North Smethwick canalside adjoining the Birmingham Canal. A number of questions were asked and representations made regarding the contents and proposals of the Plan and a few objections were expressed with relation to the allocation for Black Patch Park.

4. The Town Plan was distributed to those present (Councillors, members of the public, and officers), and subsequently provided to local organisations and stakeholders, either on request or at meetings. During 2004, a number of meetings were held with interested parties, including the Smethwick Community Forum, Smethwick Regeneration Partnership and North Smethwick Business Forum.

5. With regard to the AAP itself, the following bodies were consulted by letter on 25 January 2006 regarding the Screening Statement for the Sustainability Appraisal:

Countryside Agency, English Heritage, English Nature, Environment Agency.

(The Screening Statement is in appendix 1)

6. The following bodies were consulted by letter on 21 July 2006 on a Scoping Report for the Smethwick AAP (i.e. to determine the scope of the Sustainability Appraisal Report):

Countryside Agency, English Heritage, English Nature, and the Environment Agency

(The summary of responses to the Scoping Report is in appendix 2)

7. The issues raised during the early stages above and following on from meetings held with other agencies operating in the Smethwick area, resulted in the preparation of an Issues and Options Paper for the AAP. This was approved for consultation by the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport in May 2006. The Issues and Options Paper covered the key local social, economic and environmental features of the AAP area and plan objectives concerned with housing, employment, green space, accessibility and transport, social infrastructure and local heritage.

(The report to the Cabinet Member, 17 May 2007 is in appendix 3)

8. A wide range of organisations was consulted by letter on the Issues and Options Paper from May 2006. This was sent to statutory consultees, local groups and organisations, and other interested parties, and a response requested by the end of September 2006. The Paper was also used at Smethwick Town Committee and Smethwick Town Team along with being presented to local Councillors as an aid to discussion of the local planning issues and the possible sites for development. A joint event with the Primary Care Trust to the Smethwick Youth Forum was also arranged with feedback from four local youth groups interested in proposals for land use and health in their area.

(The Report to Smethwick Town Committee is attached as Appendix 4 and a list of consultees is in appendix 5).

In order to ensure that occupiers in Rolfe Street were aware of the proposals and to obtain feedback from the Issues and Options Paper, an additional letter was sent to all the occupants of the units in the Rolfe Street area, informing them of the consultation and requesting their comments. This is attached as Appendix 6.

9. In addition, the following actions were taken:

The document was made available on the council’s website (www.sandwell.gov.uk). A copy of the website page is included in appendix 8

Paper copies of the Issues and Options Paper were made available at Sandwell Council House, the offices of the Directorate of Planning & Transportation, and Smethwick Library.

A briefing for local councillors and the Smethwick Town Team was held on 29th June 2006,

A Report on the results of the Issues and Options stage, and for approving the Preferred Options Document and the Sustainability Appraisal Report for consultation was submitted to the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport on 21 February 2007 (appendix 10). A table of representations received, and the SMBC response is at appendix 16.

Consultation under Regulation 26 (pre-submission public participation)

10. The Smethwick AAP Preferred Options Document 2006 (and the Sustainability Report) was subject to a six-week consultation period from 19 March to 1 May 2007, with documents and letters sent out the week before.

11. The following actions were taken:

Letters and documents and representation forms were sent to specific and general consultees as listed in appendix 7, including local organisations.

Copies of the document were made available at Sandwell Council House, the offices of the Directorate of Planning & Transportation, and Smethwick Library.

The documents and the representation form were made available on the council’s website (www.sandwell.gov.uk) (see appendix 8).

A press release in February 2007 resulted in an article in the Express and Star on 23 February 2007 and the Birmingham Mail on 24th February 2007 (see appendices 9 and 12).

A presentation was given to the Environment and Housing Partnership on 27th February 2007. The Partnership is a collection of representatives from various divisions within the Council to report on how their work contributes to sustainable development within the authority and how it links with the Sandwell Plan and wider work such as the Regional Spatial Strategy.

A formal notice (the Legal Notice of Proposals Matters) was put into the main local newspapers, the Express & Star on 19th March 2007 and the Birmingham Mail on 21st March 2007, giving details of where and when documents can be inspected.

(See Appendices 13 and 14)

A local event was held on 22 March 2007 at the Community Action Project (CAP) Centre, a central venue in the AAP area. The event was advertised by letter to a range of stakeholders and included within the Report to Smethwick Town Team.

A presentation was made to Smethwick Town Committee on 20 March 2007.

(See appendix 11)

A Report on the Preferred Options stage, and for approving the Submission Document and the Sustainability Appraisal Report was submitted to the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport on 19th September 2007 (appendix 18).

Representations received under Regulation 27 (addressing representations received whilst preparing the submission development plan document).

Written feedback was provided to everyone who responded; an initial acknowledgement letter was sent to all respondents. This is attached as Appendix 15 with a table of representations and SMBC’s more detailed response in Appendix 17.

List of appendices

1. Screening Statement, January 2005 2. Responses to Scoping Report, 3. Report to Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport, May 2007 4. Report to Smethwick Town Committee, 20 June 2006 5. List of consultees for AAP at each stage. 6. Additional letter to Rolfe Street Occupiers 7. AAP Consultation List 8. Example of information on Council’s website 9. Article, Express & Star, February 2006 10. Report to Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport, 21 February 2007 11. Report to Smethwick Town Committee, 20 March 2007 12. Article – Express and Star 23 February 2007 13. Legal Notice – Birmingham Mail 21 March 2007 14. Legal Notice – Express and Star 19 March 2007 15. Example of acknowledgement letter, May 2007 16. Response to Issues and Options 17. Response to Preferred Options 18. Report to Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport 19th September 2007 Appendix 1

Screening Statement

On the determination of the need for a Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA) in accordance with the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004 and European Directive 2001/42/EC.

For the proposed

Smethwick Area Action Plan

A Development Plan Document

13th February 2006 Section 1: Introduction

The requirement for Strategic Environmental Assessments (SEAs) is set out in the Environmental Assessment of Plans and Programmes Regulations 2004, which places an obligation on Local Planning Authorities to undertake an SEA on any land use plan which sets the framework for future development consent of projects. There are however, exceptions to this requirement for plans that determine the use of a small area at local level and for minor modifications, if the Local Authority has determined that the plan is unlikely to have significant environmental effects.

In order to determine whether there are sufficient exceptions to justify an SEA not being undertaken, the Local Authority is required to undertake a screening process based on a standard set of criteria, in order to determine whether the plan is likely to have significant environmental effects. A determination on whether an SEA is required cannot be made unless the Local Authority has consulted on the screening process with four designated statutory bodies; the Countryside Agency, English Heritage, English Nature and the Environment Agency.

Following consultation, the results of the screening process will be detailed in a Screening Statement, which is required to be made available to the public. It is anticipated that all Development Plan Documents (DPD’s), including Area Action Plans (AAP's), are likely to require an SEA, as they will normally contain statutory planning policies used to determine planning applications, and are likely to have significant environmental effects. Section 2: Smethwick Area Action Plan

1. The Area Action Plan for Smethwick expands further, work that has been previously undertaken for this area. It builds on, and strengthens, the policies and proposals of the Unitary Development Plan and the Smethwick Town Plan.

2. The Sandwell Unitary Development Plan (UDP) was formally adopted by the Council on 27 April 2004. The UDP provides the statutory land use planning framework for the Borough, and contains Policies (used to determine planning applications), Proposals for specific land uses, and Inset Plans for particular areas of the Borough where there is a concentration of proposals.

3. As the Sandwell UDP was adopted in 2004, it is considered to be up-to- date. Therefore, the Council intends to save all of the policies for at least three years, until 2007, while the new documents are being prepared. There may also be some policies that are saved for a longer period. Over the next three years, the council will be preparing its evidence base for reviewing the UDP policies and preparing Area Action Plans for various parts of the Borough.

4. Following the adoption of the UDP, the Council also adopted three Town Plans in 2004 as Supplementary Planning Guidance (for Rowley Regis, Smethwick and West Bromwich). With the advent of Local Development Frameworks, it was considered appropriate to prepare Town Planning Statements for the remaining three Towns (Oldbury, Tipton and Wednesbury). The purpose of the Statements is to set out the initial land use context for the Town, analyse the relevant issues, and identify where Area Action plans may be required.

5. Planning Policy Statement 12 advises that Area Action Plans should be used to provide the planning framework for areas where significant change or conservation is needed, and should deliver planned growth areas, stimulate regeneration, protect areas sensitive to change, resolve conflicting objectives in areas subject to development pressures, or focus the delivery of area based regeneration initiatives.

6. The Smethwick Town Plan was approved in May 2004, providing a further layer of information and reviewed the allocations set out in the Unitary Development Plan. The Town Plan identified certain areas where the land uses could potentially change from the allocated industrial, to residential, and where there was a need to retain the proposed employment land. These allocations also reinforced the views of other agencies working for the transformational change in Smethwick. The Smethwick Town Plan focussed mainly on the North Smethwick Canalside Area as the main areas for change as well as Windmill Lane to address the issue of bids coming forward for funding from housing Market Renewal.

The Town Plan identified seven Area Action Plans:

1. Rolfe Street 2. Brindley II 3. Windmill Lane 4. Grove Lane 5. Cape Brewery 6. Foundry Lane 7. Smethwick High Street

During the preparation of Sandwell’s Local Development Scheme, it was considered appropriate to include those areas thought to have the potential for radical transformation of the use of land, making up the North Smethwick Canalside and the areas around Windmill Lane, in one Smethwick Area Action Plan. These consisted of Rolfe Street and Brindley II, Windmill Lane, Grove Lane and Foundry Lane. Policies and proposals within the Adopted UDP and the adopted Planning Brief in the Town Plan would guide development of the High Street area and the former Cape Hill Brewery respectively.

The Local Development Scheme summarises the role and content of the document as: “Extend the canalside housing along the north of the Birmingham Mainline canal; Bring forward additional sites for both residential and industrial development; Address access issues; Provide a framework for a phased programme of redevelopment in the area to assist the HMRA.”

Section 3: The Screening Process

The key to the screening decision is the determination of whether the AAP is likely to have significant environmental effects, using the criteria set out in Annex II of the SEA Directive. These criteria are set out in the table below, alongside which is the Council’s response in relation to the AAP.

SEA Directive Criteria Response The degree to which the plan The AAP will be based on the Adopted UDP or programme sets a 2004, but is likely to bring forward the framework for projects and allocations contained in the Smethwick Town other activities, either with Plan which will radically change the land regard to the location, nature, uses alongside the canal network. It is likely size and operating conditions to include new or different allocations in or by allocating resources some locations. Subject to adoption, the AAP will therefore set a framework for a range of proposals specifically with regard to location, nature and size, and will also allocate resources accordingly.

The degree to which the plan The Adopted UDP 2004 will influence the or programme influences AAP, but also be influenced by the AAP. other plans and programmes There will also be some influence on the including those in a hierarchy Smethwick Housing Strategy, Sandwell/Birmingham Housing Market Renewal Area and the visions and priorities of the Urban Regeneration Company.

The relevance of the plan or PPS12 states that at the heart of sustainable programme for the integration development is the simple idea of ensuring a of environmental better quality of life for everyone, now and for considerations, in particular future generations. with a view to promoting Environmental considerations have already sustainable development. been identified as key issues for the community and key stakeholders, ranging And from reduction of pollution, to provision of green space and open space, to traffic Environmental problems generation. The intention of the AAP is to relevant to the plan or integrate environmental, economic, social programme and physical considerations in order to promote a better quality of life. The relevance of the plan or There will be some relevant environmental programme for the issues affected by the AAP, including air and implementation of Community noise pollution. legislation on the environment (e.g. plans and programmes linked to waste management or water protection)

The probability, duration, The anticipated effects will be the delivery of frequency and reversibility of a range of proposals by a partnership of key the effects stakeholders over a period of years, which will be established in consultation with those And partners.

The cumulative nature of the The proposals when taken together will effects significantly affect the characteristics of the area, in terms of the introduction of new development and the replacement of some existing uses and operations. The majority of these effects will be irreversible.

The transboundary nature of There are likely to be transboundary effects the effects given the location adjoining another authority. The effects will be mainly local, but by its nature, the Black Country is an area of interdependency in terms of the housing and employment markets, and the travel network. There is likely to be some effect on the Sandwell/Birmingham Housing Market Renewal Area.

The risks to human health or There may be risks arising from increases in the environment (e.g. due to development and consequently traffic. Some accidents) existing risks may be reduced with changes in land use from industrial to residential use, thereby removing unsafe or unhealthy sites in the area. The magnitude and spatial The area of the AAP covers most of Soho & extent of the effects Victoria ward and a small part of St. Paul’s (geographical area and size of ward. Whilst the area is large, it only the population likely to be contains approximately 7486 people. Less affected) than half of the area actually contains housing with the remainder being industrial premises. The value and vulnerability of The area contains the Smethwick Summit the area likely to be affected Conservation area, Statutorily Listed due to: structures and those of Local Importance • Special natural contained on the Local List. Within the Plan characteristics or cultural area is also Soho Foundry which is of heritage National Importance and a potential World • Exceeded environmental Heritage Site. quality standards or limit values • Intensive land-use • The effects on areas or landscapes which have a recognised national, Community or International protection status

Section 4: Statement of Reasons for Determination

It has been demonstrated above, through the responses to the SEA Directive Criteria, that the impact of the Smethwick Area Action Plan will have significant environmental effects, and it will set a new framework.

Each of the four statutory consultation bodies was consulted on the initial screening statement.

The responses received were as follows:

Countryside Agency: An SEA will be required

English Heritage: An SEA will be required

English Nature: An SEA will be required

Environment Agency: An SEA will be required

It is considered that as a result of the assessment undertaken by the Council, along with the responses received from the statutory consultation bodies, an SEA is required for the purposes of the Smethwick Area Action Plan.

Appendix 2 – Responses to Scoping Report

Respondent Summary Response Council’s Response English Heritage Recommend rewording ‘heritage’ ‘historic The historic environment will be referred environment’ or ‘historic assets’. to in place of heritage. Suggest that Sandwell Historic Urban Reference will be made to the HUCS in Characterization Study is referred to. the Plan. Baseline Information – recommend that SOs are ‘given’ (i.e. decided at Sandwell the Council’s HER is checked for any level). Confirm that the historic buildings or features of local value. environment is part of the built Sustainability problems and issues could environment (there is a specific plan also include opportunities at this stage. objective). Sustainability Objective 9 – Value, enhance and protect built environment assets – include the historic environment. Testing of plan objectives should also refer to historic environment and mitigation measures should be identified. English Nature Welcome plan objectives that protect and Consideration will be given to the enhance open spaces and green spaces. inclusion of other plans and programmes. Suggest inclusion of other relevant plans e.g. The Conservation (Natural Habitats) Consider including standards for access Regulations 1994, PPS9 Biodiversity and to open space and natural greenspace n Geological Conservation. Plan. Reference should be made to standards for open space of; Sustainability Objectives are set at A greenspace of at least 2ha <300m from Borough Level – no change proposed. home; A Local Nature Reserve provision at a minimum of 1ha. Per thousand population; At least one greenspace of 20ha. Within 2km of home, one 100ha. Site within 5km of home, and one 500ha. Site within 10km. Standards for access to natural greenspace should be included within the plan. Suggest change to sustainability objective 11 to “Encourage high quality, attractive safe and accessible built and natural environments” and Headline indicator is also changed. Environment Agency Note that no Strategic Flood Risk A SFRA will be undertaken which will Assessment has been undertaken for the inform the AAP prior to its adoption. Authority, which is a requirement under Will consider including additional the forthcoming PPS25, and therefore we information in the Plan to ensure this is object to this document. covered. Suggest additional plan objective for PPS 25 will be included, although it is not Protecting and enhancing the natural considered the Water Directive is environment within the Smethwick area. required. Should include PPS25, The Water Additional information will be included Framework Directive in the other Plans to within the plan regarding flood zones. be considered. The baseline data will be corrected in the Additional baseline information of Flood Plan. Zones should be included. Sustainability Objectives have already Inaccurate data regarding probability of been set but comments can be flooding. incorporated within more detailed Include Sustainable Drainage systems to proposals within the Plan. the indicator under objective 13. Countryside Agency No comments N/a Appendix 3 Agenda Item X

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Report to the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport

17th May 2006

Smethwick Area Action Plan – Issues and Options Paper

1. Summary Statement

1.1 The Smethwick Area Action Plan (AAP) has been included within Sandwell’s Local Development Scheme, which was approved in 2005. The aims of the Smethwick AAP are to extend the canalside housing along the north of the Birmingham Mainline canal; Bring forward additional sites for both residential and industrial development; Address access issues and Provide a framework for a phased programme of redevelopment in the area to assist the HMRA.

1.2 In line with the new planning process, it is proposed that the views of communities and stakeholders are gained on the future development opportunities for the Smethwick Area, prior to a plan being produced for public consultation. This consultation will be carried out in line with the submitted Statement of Community Involvement.

1.3 In order to start this process, an Issues and Options Paper has been prepared. This sets out some of the issues that face the future regeneration of the Smethwick Area and the need to assist in the provision of vital services. The Issues and Options Paper will form the basis of discussion in any informal meetings held throughout this first stage of the plan making process.

1.4 The objectives for the Smethwick Area Action Plan are set out in the Issues and Options Paper. These include;

• Encourage the provision of a range of new, high quality homes to meet local and future needs, including affordable housing. • Identify new employment sites or appropriate relocation sites which will aid local employment opportunities. • Evaluate, protect and enhance existing open spaces and green spaces and provide new facilities where there is an identified need. • Improve accessibility for all modes of transport through and within the plan area. • Ensure that the social infrastructure, such as education, health and community facilities, is appropriate to serve the existing and proposed communities within the plan area. • Protecting and enhancing the heritage assets of the Smethwick Area.

1.5 The Issues and Options Paper will be sent to a range of stakeholders, including statutory consultees, local groups and organisations. It will be used as a tool for discussion at local meetings and presented to Smethwick Town Committee. The comments received through this informal consultation period will form the basis of a Preferred Options document to be prepared. This document will be published for public consultation, together with a Sustainability Appraisal and is due to take place in November 2006.

1.6 Following informal consultation, a further report will be submitted to Cabinet Advisory Team prior to formal consultation being undertaken.

1.7 This report was deferred from the last meeting to allow further information and details with partner agencies to be considered within the options.

Further details are attached for your information

2. Recommendation

2.1 That the Issues and Options Paper be approved as the basis for community involvement and consultation.

2.2 That the Issues and Options Paper and issues arising from consultation, be used to inform the content of the Smethwick Area Action Plan and be reported back to the Cabinet Member in due course.

2.3 That the Director of Planning and Transportation be authorised to make minor changes to the Issues and Options Paper arising from the Cabinet Advisory Team where appropriate.

In accordance with the authority delegated to the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport, the following course of action has been agreed, which will be set out in the formal record of the decisions taken by the Member:

(1) the recommendation(s) above is/are approved.

(2) the recommendation(s) above is/are approved as now amended.

(3) the recommendations above are not approved.

______Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport

Date ...17th May 2006......

Robert A Lee Director of Planning and Transportation

Contact Officer Hayley Insley Planning Policy Section 0121 569 4254

Smethwick Area Action Plan – Issues and Options Paper

3. Strategic Resource Implications

3.1 The production of the Issues and Options Paper, and subsequent consultation, will be met from existing budgets within Planning and Transportation.

4. Legal and Statutory Implications

4.1 In September 2004, the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 introduced a new statutory planning system for local planning authorities requiring each local planning authority to prepare a Local Development Framework (LDF), which contains a portfolio of local development documents. The Act is accompanied by The Town and Country Planning (Local Development) (England) Regulations 2004, and the Town and Country Planning (Transitional Arrangements) Regulations 2004.

4.2 Sandwell’s Local Development Scheme (LDS) has been approved, and it contains within it, an Area Action Plan for Smethwick. It is a requirement of the new Act that issues and options for the area need to be prepared prior to the submission of a Preferred Options document which will undergo formal public consultation. In the LDS, this consultation is scheduled for October 2006.

4.3 Consultation will be carried out in line with the Council’s submitted Statement of Community Involvement. The Issues and Options Paper will be distributed to statutory consultees, local groups and businesses, and other interested parties in order to encourage discussion and feedback.

5. Implications for the Council’s Corporate Priorities

5.1 The preparation of the Smethwick Area Action Plan will contribute to a number of the Council’s Corporate Priorities. In setting the planning framework for the area through the use of community involvement and planning guidance, the AAP will undoubtedly contribute to Transforming the Physical Environment. In identifying areas suitable for residential or employment development, the Plan will also contribute to Improving housing choice and Opportunities for high value jobs for local people, as well as in directing improving Local communities, Safe Borough, clean & tidy through working in partnership with other agencies.

6 Background Details

6.1 In September 2004, the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 introduced a new statutory planning system for local planning authorities requiring each local planning authority to prepare a Local Development Framework (LDF), which contains a portfolio of local development documents. The Act is accompanied by The Town and Country Planning (Local Development) (England) Regulations 2004, and the Town and Country Planning (Transitional Arrangements) Regulations 2004.

6.2 An Area Action Plan (AAP) for Smethwick has been included within Sandwell’s Local Development Scheme, which was approved in 2005. The aims of the Smethwick AAP are to extend the canalside housing along the north of the Birmingham Mainline canal; bring forward additional sites for both residential and industrial development; address access issues and provide a framework for a phased programme of redevelopment in the area to assist the HMRA.

6.3 It is proposed that the views of communities and stakeholders are gained on the future development opportunities and land use plan for the Smethwick Area. In order to start the dialogue with the community and interested stakeholders, an Issues and Options Paper has been prepared. This sets out some of the issues that face the future regeneration of the Smethwick AAP Area and the need to assist in the provision of vital services. The Issues and Options Paper will form the basis of discussion in any informal meetings held throughout this first stage of the plan making process. Further detail on the Issues and Options Paper is set out in the attached Appendix.

6.4 In line with the submitted Statement of Community Involvement, the Issues and Options Paper will be sent to a range of stakeholders, including statutory consultees, local groups and organisations. It will be used as a tool for discussion at local meetings and presented to Smethwick Town Committee in due course. Any comments received through this informal consultation period will be considered and will contribute to the preparation of a Preferred Options document. The Preferred Options document will be published for public consultation over a six-week period, together with a Sustainability Appraisal and is scheduled for November 2006.

6.5 Following informal consultation, a further report will be submitted to Cabinet Advisory Team prior to formal consultation being undertaken.

Source Documents

Sandwell Local Development Scheme Submitted Statement of Community Involvement Appendix 4

Agenda Item X

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Smethwick Town Committee

20th June 2006

Smethwick Area Action Plan – Issues and Options Paper

1. Summary Statement

1.8 The Smethwick Area Action Plan (AAP) has been included within Sandwell’s Local Development Scheme, which was approved in 2005. The aims of the Smethwick AAP are to extend the canalside housing along the north of the Birmingham Mainline canal; Bring forward additional sites for both residential and industrial development; Address access issues and Provide a framework for a phased programme of redevelopment in the area to assist the HMRA.

1.9 In line with the new planning process, it is proposed that the views of communities and stakeholders are gained on the future development opportunities for the Smethwick Area, prior to a plan being produced for public consultation. This consultation will be carried out in line with the submitted Statement of Community Involvement.

1.10 In order to start this process, an Issues and Options Paper has been prepared. This sets out some of the issues that face the future regeneration of the Smethwick Area and the need to assist in the provision of vital services. The Issues and Options Paper will form the basis of discussion in any informal meetings held throughout this first stage of the plan making process.

1.11 The objectives for the Smethwick Area Action Plan are set out in the Issues and Options Paper. These include;

1.12 The Issues and Options Paper will be sent to a range of stakeholders, including statutory consultees, local groups and organizations and will be used as a tool for discussion at local meetings. It will also be placed on the Council’s Website. The comments received through this informal consultation period will form the basis of a Preferred Options document to be prepared for formal consultation in November 2006.

1.13 Further information will be provided at the Town Committee.

Further details are attached for your information

2. Recommendation

2.1 The views of the Committee about the issues to be included in the Smethwick Area Action Plan are requested.

Robert A Lee Director of Planning and Transportation

Contact Officer Hayley Insley Planning Policy Section 0121 569 4254

Smethwick Area Action Plan – Issues and Options Paper

3. Strategic Resource Implications

3.1 The production of the Issues and Options Paper, and subsequent consultation, will be met from existing budgets within Planning and Transportation.

4. Legal and Statutory Implications

4.2 In September 2004, the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 introduced a new statutory planning system for local planning authorities requiring each local planning authority to prepare a Local Development Framework (LDF), which contains a portfolio of local development documents. The Act is accompanied by The Town and Country Planning (Local Development) (England) Regulations 2004, and the Town and Country Planning (Transitional Arrangements) Regulations 2004.

5. Implications for the Council’s Corporate Priorities

5.1 The preparation of the Smethwick Area Action Plan will contribute to a number of the Council’s Corporate Priorities. In setting the planning framework for the area through the use of community involvement and planning guidance, the AAP will undoubtedly contribute to Transforming the Physical Environment. In identifying areas suitable for residential or employment development, the Plan will also contribute to Improving housing choice and Opportunities for high value jobs for local people, as well as indirectly improving Local communities, Safe Borough, clean & tidy through working in partnership with other agencies.

6 Background Details

6.1 Further information will be presented at the Town Committee. Copies of the Issues and Options Paper have already been sent to Councillors and local organisations. Further copies will be available at the Committee.

Source Documents

Sandwell Local Development Scheme Submitted Statement of Community Involvement Smethwick Area Action Plan – Issues and Options Paper APPENDIX 5 – Smethwick AAP Consultees

Contact Name Organisation Address1 Address2 Address3 Address4 Postcode British Waterways West Midlands Office Albert House, 92-93 Edward Birmingham B1 2RA Peter Brown CENTRO Centro House 16 Summer Birmingham B19 3SD Andrew Canning Natural England 1st Floor, Vincent 92-93 Edward Birmingham B1 2RA David R Carter City of Birmingham Development Planning Alpha Tower PO Box 28 Birmingham B1 1TU English Heritage 112 Colmore Row Birmingham West Midlands B3 3AG Graham Walker English Nature West Midlands Region Attingham Shrewsbury Shropshire Marion Hinton Environment Agency Upper Trent Area 9 Wellington Fradley Park Lichfield WS13 8RR Home Builders Federation Suite 4 Shakespeare 2233 Coventry Sheldon Birmingham B26 3NJ South Staffordshire Water PLC Central Office Green Lane Walsall WS2 7PD John Middleton Sandwell Health Authority P.O. Box 1953 Lewisham West West Midlands B71 4NA Karen Martin Severn Trent Water Ltd 2297 Coventry Road Sheldon Birmingham B26 3PU Station Officer Ian West Midlands Fire Service Fire Service H. Q. Lancaster Queensway Birmingham B4 7DE Christine Seaton The Housing Corporation Regional Office Norwich Union Waterloo Road Wolverhampto WV1 4BP The Wildlife Trust for Birmingham and 28 Harborne Road Edgbaston Birmingham B15 3AA Advantage West Midlands 3 Priestley Wharf Holt Street Aston Science Birmingham B7 4BN English Partnerships Jordan House West Hall Court Hall Park Way Telford TF3 4NN Mr Ash Kumar Cape Hill Traders Association Friends Jewellers Ltd. 62-64 Cape Warley Smethwick B66 4PB Mr Assad Uddin Smethwick Bangladeshi Muslim 253 Halfords Lane Smethwick West Midlands B66 1BD Mr Tony Adcock Avery Berkel Ltd Foundry Lane Smethwick West Midlands B66 2LP K. Jisdhawl Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick 130 High Street Smethwick B66 3AP Mr Musleh Uddin Bangladeshi Islamic Association 10-11 Lewisham Road Smethwick Warley West Midlands B66 2BP Mr G. Welch Metric Estate Tenants and Residents 74 Queens Close Broomfield Smethwick Warley B67 7EA Abdul Alrahi Smethwick Pakistani Muslim 1-7 Corbett Street Smethwick Warley B66 3PY FAO Nick Barnet Npower Windmill Hill Business Whitehill Way Swindon Wiltshire SN5 6PB Mr S. Josan Smethwick High Street Traders 56 High Street Smethwick West Midlands B66 1 DS Ms C. D'Arcy Ash & Lacy Plc PO Box 58 Alma Street Smethwick West Midlands B66 2RP Mr S Millman Unifix Limited Bridge House Grove Lane Smethwick West Midlands B66 2RP Mr P. Hadley Hadley Industries PO Box 92 Downing Smethwick West Midlands B66 2PA Gary Bowman Sandwell Partnership Kingston House 438 High West B70 9LD Vaughan Welch The Inland Waterways Association Birmingham, Black 29 Dice Pleck Northfield Birmingham B31 3XW Mr A Jones Access Alliance 44 Barnfordhill Close Oldbury West Midlands B68 8ES Liz Davis Highways Agency C2/04 5 Broadway Broad Street Birmingham B15 1BL

West Midlands Regional Assembley Regional Partnership Albert House, 92-93 Edward Birmingham B1 2RA Centre Quay Place Street Government Office for the West 5 St Philip's Place Colmore Row Birmingham B3 2PW Councillor D C Cooper C/o Jane Perham Kingston 438 High West Midlands B70 9LD Councillor S Eling C/o Dawn Roche Sandwell Oldbury West Midlands Councillor Mrs L R 47 Hall Road Smethwick West Midlands B67 6SQ Councillor R L Horton 47 Hall Road Smethwick West Midlands B67 6SQ Councillor Dr A E G 272 Galton Road Smethwick West Midlands B67 5JL Councillor G S Josan Milverton Grange 74 West Park Smethwick West Midlands B67 7JH Councillor R F Piper 115 Barclay Road Smethwick B67 5JZ Councillor M Sakhi 80 Bertram Road Smethwick B67 7NZ Councillor V Silvester 29 Elsma Road Oldbury West Midlands B68 0LX Councillor M Zaheer 218 Birmingham Road Oldbury B69 4EH Councillor M Rouf 88 Shireland Road Smethwick B66 4QJ Kathy Gee Chief Museums, Libraries & Archives West Floor 2, Grosvenor 14 Bennetts Birmingham B2 5RS Tim Bryan Executive Culture West Midlands The Regional Albert House, Edward Street Birmingham B1 2RA Brian Summers Tourism West Midlands c/o Advantage West 3 Priestley Holt Street, Birmingham B7 4BN Maggie Taylor- Sport England West Midlands 5th Floor No 3 Five Ways Birmingham B15 1BQ Sally Luton Arts Council West Midlands 82 Granville Street Birmingham B1 2LH Miss Irene Ellis Chair - Albion Estate TRA 91 St. Stephens Road West West Midlands Mr Parwez Ahmed BEARWOOD BUSINESS Punjab Café & 518 Bearwood Bearwood B66 4BX Mr Sam Dhillon SMETHWICK HIGH STREET Comprehensive 266-272 High Smethwick B66 3NL British Gas House Contact Centre PO Box 50 Leeds LS1 1LE George Munro Dudley & Sandwell Chamber of Dudley Court South Waterfront Brierley Hill DY5 1QN Mr Andrew Simons Friends of Black Patch Park 49 Perrott Street Winson Green Birmingham B18 4LZ Mr Graham Price Friends of West Smethwick 30 West Park Road Smethwick West Midlands B67 7JJ Rod Griffin Urban Living 7th Floor Intersection 110 West B70 6RP John Sandland RegenCo 7th Floor Intersection 110 West B70 6RX Andrew Canning-Trigg Countryside Agency West Midlands Region, 1st Floor, Quay Place, Birmingham B1 2RA Russell Allen SMBC Youth Service Control House Shaftesbury West B70 9QD PC Chilton West Midlands Police Piddock Road Smethwick West Midlands B66 3BW Brian Green British Waterways Canal Lane Hatton Warwickshire CV35 7JL Accord Housing Association 178 Birmingham Road West B70 6QG Black Country Housing Association 174 High Street Blackheath B65 0JE Bromford Corinthia 9 Shaw Park Business Bushbury Wolverhampto WV10 9LE

Focus Housing Association 35 Paradise Circus Birmingham B1 2AJ Jephson Housing Association 1st Floor Trafalger King Street Dudley DY2 8PS Waterloo Housing Association Waterloo House 76-78 Sutton B73 5TL Oldbury and Smethwick PCT Kingston House 438-450 High West West Midlands B70 9LD

Appendix 6 - Example of Rolfe Street letter

Star Windows (UK) Ltd My Ref: HFI/2000/401/400/2157 18 Rolfe Street Your Ref: Please ask for: Hayley Insley Smethwick Telephone No. 0121 569 West Midlands E-mail: [email protected] th B66 2AA Date: 18 September 2006

Dear Sir/Madam,

Smethwick Area Action Plan – Issues and Options Paper

As part of the new planning process, the Local Authority is producing an Area Action Plan for Smethwick. This Plan will look at the future land use framework within the North Smethwick Canalside and Windmill Lane areas to guide development which balances the needs of existing residential and business communities with the need for regeneration.

As part of the consultation leading to the preparation of a Preferred Options Document later this year, an Issues and Options Paper was produced which identified some of the Issues within the Smethwick Plan area, and suggested options on how future land uses could address them. This Paper was sent to statutory consultees, community groups and other interested stakeholders within the Plan area in May, and has been available for viewing on the Council’s website. The Council has also been working in partnership with other agencies in drawing up proposals for the transformation of this area.

As someone who may be affected by future land use change as part of the Area Action Plan, you may wish to comment on the options being put forward which are outlined below. Whilst comments should ideally be received by the end of this month, in order to allow you time to comment, the closing date for any comments is now 6th October 2006. The Options are;

Option 1 – Retain existing land use allocation from the Unitary Development Plan

The area will remain occupied by low intensive, industrial uses in buildings of poor quality. Accessibility to this area would remain difficult with many heavy goods vehicles passing through some residential areas. There is the possibility that land allocated for mixed-uses may be developed on a piecemeal basis and will not contribute to a wider, transformational change. The canals would continue to be under-utilised due to the perception of crime and lack of natural surveillance. Applications for change of use to residential would be resisted as contrary to the allocation for Business/Employment uses and incompatible with adjoining uses. Option 2 – Redevelop for a residential led mixed-use scheme

Bringing the Brindley II site forward for a predominantly residential scheme will act as a catalyst for further development adjoining the canalside. The potential development will also redevelop land which has lain vacant for some years and promote alternative use of the existing industrial sites which at present, occupy a pretty run down estate. The potential exists for further regeneration of the area on Rolfe Street for a mixed-use scheme incorporating a range of commercial, residential and community uses, utilising the canalside location, promoting increased usage of the canal as a location for leisure and recreation and as a link north-south to other parts of Smethwick.

Option 3 – Redevelop the Rolfe Street area for predominantly commercial uses

Retaining the Business Zone allocation of the Unitary Development Plan would promote uses in classes B1,B2 & B8 and Mixed Uses on the Brindley II site. However, it is not considered that redevelopment for commercial uses on a large scale would be financially viable in this location. Uses operating during the daytime only, would not promote 24 hour use of this area alongside the canal and therefore, the potential to promote the canal for increased usage would be lost. The types of uses to be considered would need to be in context with the saved policies of the Unitary Development Plan as well as the various Economic Strategies and proposals from RSS and the Black Country Study.

The results from this initial consultation will lead to the preparation of a Preferred Options Document, scheduled for public consultation in January/February 2007, therefore, it is vital that all viewpoints are considered.

Should you wish to have an electronic or hard copy of the whole of the Issues and Options Paper, please contact me at the address at the bottom of this letter, or telephone me on 0121 569 4254. You may also view the Issues and Options Paper on the Council’s website by going to ‘S’ on the A-Z Index at www.sandwell.gov.uk.

Yours faithfully

Hayley Insley Senior Planner Planning Policy Section

Appendix 7 – AAP Consultation List – Preferred Options

Andrew Canning-Trigg Russell Allen Countryside Agency SMBC Youth Service West Midlands Region, Control House 1st Floor, Vincent House, Shaftesbury Street Quay Place, 92-93 Edward Street, West Bromwich Birmingham B70 9QD B1 2RA

British Waterways Peter Brown West Midlands Office CENTRO Albert House, Quay Place Centro House 92-93 Edward Street 16 Summer Lane Birmingham Birmingham B1 2RA B19 3SD

Andrew Canning David R Carter Landscape, Access and Recreation City of Birmingham Division, Natural England Development Planning Division 1st Floor, Vicent House Alpha Tower Quay Place PO Box 28 Suffolk Street 92-93 Edward Street Birmingham Birmingham B1 1TU B1 2RA English Heritage North Smethwick Housing Development 112 Colmore Row Trust Birmingham Brasshouse Centre West Midlands Brasshouse Lane B3 3AG Smethwick B66 1BA Marion Hinton Home Builders Federation Environment Agency Suite 4 Shakespeare Building Upper Trent Area Office, Sentinel House 2233 Coventry Road 9 Wellington Crescent Sheldon Fradley Park Birmingham Lichfield B26 3NJ WS13 8RR

South Staffordshire Water PLC John Middleton Central Office Sandwell Health Authority Green Lane P.O. Box 1953 Walsall Lewisham Street WS2 7PD West Bromwich West Midlands B71 4NA

Karen Martin Station Officer Ian Skidmore Severn Trent Water Ltd West Midlands Fire Service 2297 Coventry Road Fire Service H. Q. Sheldon Lancaster Circus Birmingham Queensway B26 3PU Birmingham B4 7DE

Christine Seaton The Wildlife Trust for Birmingham and the The Housing Corporation Black Country Regional Office 28 Harborne Road Norwich Union House Edgbaston Waterloo Road Birmingham Wolverhampton B15 3AA WV1 4BP Advantage West Midlands English Partnerships 3 Priestley Wharf Jordan House West Holt Street Hall Court Aston Science Park Hall Park Way Birmingham Telford B7 4BN TF3 4NN

Mr Gurdev Singh Mr Ash Kumar Gurdwara Nanaksar Smethwick Cape Hill Traders Association Waterloo Road Friends Jewellers Ltd. Smethwick 62-64 Cape Hill B66 4JS Warley Smethwick B66 4PB Mr Assad Uddin Mr Tony Adcock Smethwick Bangladeshi Muslim Welfare Avery Berkel Ltd Association Foundry Lane 253 Halfords Lane Smethwick Smethwick West Midlands West Midlands B66 2LP B66 1BD K. Jisdhawl Mr Musleh Uddin Guru Nanak Gurdwara Smethwick Bangladeshi Islamic Association 130 High Street 10-11 Lewisham Road Smethwick Smethwick B66 3AP Warley West Midlands B66 2BP Wendy Falconer Mr G. Welch Galton Village Tenants Association Metric Estate Tenants and Residents 5 Pine Avenue Association Smethwick 74 Queens Close B66 1TH Broomfield Smethwick Warley B67 7EA Department of Trade and Industry Mr Davies Convention House Travel West Midlands Paradiste Circus Falling Park Queensway Wolverhampton Birmingham, B1 WV10 9QG Abdul Alrahi FAO Nick Barnet Smethwick Pakistani Muslim Association Npower 1-7 Corbett Street Windmill Hill Business Park Smethwick Whitehill Way Warley Swindon B66 3PY Wiltshire SN5 6PB Councillor M Zaheer Councillor M Rouf 218 Birmingham Road 88 Shireland Road Oldbury Smethwick B69 4EH B66 4QJ

Kathy Gee Chief Executive Tim Bryan Executive Director Museums, Libraries & Archives West Culture West Midlands Midlands The Regional Partnership Centre Floor 2, Grosvenor House Albert House, Quay Place 14 Bennetts Hill Edward Street Birmingham Birmingham B2 5RS B1 2RA

Brian Summers Chairman Maggie Taylor- Planning Manager Tourism West Midlands Sport England West Midlands c/o Advantage West Midlands 5th Floor No 3 Broadway 3 Priestley Wharf Five Ways Holt Street, Aston Science Park Birmingham Birmingham, B7 4BN B15 1BQ

Sally Luton Councillor G S Josan Arts Council West Midlands Milverton Grange 82 Granville Street 74 West Park Road Birmingham Smethwick B1 2LH West Midlands B67 7JH Councillor R F Piper Councillor M Sakhi 115 Barclay Road 80 Bertram Road Smethwick Smethwick B67 5JZ B67 7NZ

Councillor V Silvester Mr S. Josan 29 Elsma Road Smethwick High Street Traders Oldbury Association West Midlands 56 High Street B68 0LX Smethwick West Midlands B66 1 DS Ms C. D'Arcy Mr S Millman Ash & Lacy Plc Unifix Limited PO Box 58 Bridge House Alma Street Grove Lane Smethwick Smethwick West Midlands West Midlands B66 2RP B66 2RP

Mr P. Hadley Gary Bowman Hadley Industries Sandwell Partnership PO Box 92 Kingston House Downing Street 438 High Street Smethwick West Bromwich West Midlands B70 9LD B66 2PA

Vaughan Welch Mr A Jones The Inland Waterways Association Access Alliance Birmingham, Black Country & 44 Barnfordhill Close Worcestershire Branch Oldbury 29 Dice Pleck West Midlands Northfield B68 8ES Birmingham, B31 3XW Liz Davis West Midlands Regional Planning Highways Agency Partnership C2/04 West Midlands Regional Assembly, 5 Broadway Regional Partnership Centre Broad Street Albert House, Quay Place Birmingham 92-93 Edward Street, Birmingham B15 1BL B1 2RA

Duncan Holness Councillor D C Cooper Government Office for the West Midlands C/o Jane Perham 5 St Philip's Place Kingston House Colmore Row 438 High Street Birmingham West Midlands B3 2PW B70 9LD

Councillor S Eling Councillor Mrs L R Horton C/o Dawn Roche 47 Hall Road Sandwell Council House Smethwick Oldbury West Midlands West Midlands B67 6SQ

Councillor R L Horton Councillor Dr A E G Jaron 47 Hall Road 272 Galton Road Smethwick Smethwick West Midlands West Midlands B67 6SQ B67 5JL

Miss Irene Ellis Mr Parwez Ahmed Chair - Albion Estate TRA BEARWOOD BUSINESS ASSOCIATION 91 St. Stephens Road Punjab Café & Restaurant West Bromwich 518 Bearwood Road West Midlands Bearwood B66 4BX Mr Sam Dhillon British Gas SMETHWICK HIGH STREET FORUM House Contact Centre Comprehensive Management Consultants PO Box 50 266-272 High Street Leeds Smethwick LS1 1LE B66 3NL George Munro Mr Andrew Simons Dudley & Sandwell Chamber of Friends of Black Patch Park Commerce 49 Perrott Street Dudley Court South Winson Green Waterfront East Birmingham Brierley Hill B18 4LZ DY5 1QN

Mr Graham Price Rod Griffin Friends of West Smethwick Urban Living 30 West Park Road 7th Floor Smethwick Intersection House West Midlands 110 Birmingham Road B67 7JJ West Bromwich B70 6RP Ros Kerslake PC Chilton RegenCo West Midlands Police 7th Floor Piddock Road Intersection House Smethwick 110 Birmingham Road West Midlands West Bromwich B66 3BW B70 6RX

Brian Green Accord Housing Association British Waterways 178 Birmingham Road Canal Lane West Bromwich Hatton B70 6QG Warwickshire CV35 7JL Black Country Housing Association Bromford Corinthia 174 High Street 9 Shaw Park Blackheath Business Village, Shaw Road B65 0JE Bushbury Wolverhampton WV10 9LE Focus Housing Association Jephson Housing Association 35 Paradise Circus 1st Floor Birmingham Trafalger House B1 2AJ King Street Dudley DY2 8PS Waterloo Housing Association Oldbury and Smethwick PCT Waterloo House Kingston House 76-78 Boldmere Road 438-450 High Street, Sutton Coldfield West Bromwich B73 5TL West Midlands B70 9LD H S Dardi Mr Robert Miller IWAGB Sandwell Branch 22 Talbot Road 36 Bertam Road Smethwick Smethwick B66 4DT B67 7NY Council for British Arcaeology K I Sharma St Mary’s House Hindu Cultural Resource Centre 66 Boothem 360 Spon Lane South York Smethwick YO30 7BZ B66 1AB Mr Bob Sharples Ms Beita Fernandez 139 Pargeter Road Agewell Rep Smethwick SCEN Housing and Environment Thematic B67 5HZ Group 37 Mountbatten Close West Bromwich Bhavnita patel Peter R Gaunt Race Equality Sandwell F P Gaunt and Sons Litd 28 Birmingham Street 130-133 High Street Oldbury Rowley Regis West Midlands B65 0EE B69 4DS Mrs H Shelton Black Country Job Centre Plus 13 Broadmeadehosue Black Country District Office Pavilion Avenue Crown House Smethwick Birch Street B67 6LB Wolverhampton Mr Jim Cox R Crolla Holy Trinity Church Asda Stores Ltd 64 South Road Asda House Smethwick Southbank B67 7BP Great Wilson Street Leeds, LS11 5AD Network Rail SCEN The Mailbox 2 Attlee Close 100 Wharfeside Street Tividale Birmingham Oldbury West Midlands West Midlands B1 1RT B69 3JF Sandwell Traders Association Mark Williams 131 High Street Community Action Project Princes End CAP Centre Tipton Windmill Lane DY4 9JE Smethwick West Midlands B66 3LX Midlands Architecture and the Designed Sheena Terrace Environment West Midlands Planning Aid Birmingham & Midland Institute Unit 319, Margaret Street The Custard Factory, Birmingham Gibb Street, B3 3SP Birmingham, B9 4AA Ms Trehearn Rt Hon John Spellar (MP) Black Country House Brandhall Labour Club Rounds Green Road Tame Road Oldbury Oldbury B69 2DG West Midlands B68 0JT Mr M Whitehead Mr B Macdonald Bloor Homes RMA Architects Ltd Ashby Road 3 Ella Mews Measham Cressy Road Swadlincote London Derbyshire, DE12 7JP NW3 2NH Ms L Holl Mr M Hill North Smethwick Housing Development Bromford Conrinthia Trust 1 Venture Court Brasshouse Centre Broadland Brasshouse Lane Wolverhampton Smethwick, B66 1BA WV10 6TB Miss J Lindsey Andrew Brown 99 Mansion Crescent 12 Soho House Smethwick Soho Close B67 6QB Smethwick B66 2SR Aynols Reid Annette McDonald Bishop Close TRA Windmill Community Group 17 Curtis Close 171 Windmill Lane Smethwick Smethwick Sister Margaret Walsh Gareth Brown Brushstrokes Raglan Road Methodist Church C/0 St Phillips Church 70 Raglan Road Messenger Road Smethwick Smethwick Ms Maloney Commission For Architecture And The Built Environment 1 Kemble Street London WC2B 4AN

Appendix 8 – Extract from web page

Smethwick Area Action Plan The Smethwick Area Action Plan (AAP) will provide a land use framework to guide development in a specific part of Smethwick. Planning And Transportation Development House Lombard Street West Bromwich B70 8RU Tel: 0121 569 4254 Fax: 0121 569 4082 Email: [email protected] Opening Hours: Monday - Thursday 8.00am - 5.30pm. Friday 8.00am - 5.00pm

The aim of this Area Action Plan (AAP) is to:

• extend the canal side housing along the north of the Birmingham Mainline canal; • bring forward additional sites for both residential and industrial developments; • address access issues; • provide a framework for a phased programme of redevelopment in the area to assist the HMRA

Work is currently underway on this document. Issues and Options Paper - This paper sets out some of the major issues of the area covered by the Smethwick Area Action Plan and provides options to be considered in the preparation of the Plan. Comments on this paper from residents, community groups, businesses, and other parties with an interest in the area are requested by the end of September 2006. The outcome of these comments will contribute to the preparation of a Preferred Options Document. A Preferred Options Document has been prepared which concentrates on the North Smethwick Canalside and Windmill Eye areas of Smethwick. It is now out for public consultation from Monday 19th March to Tuesday 1st May 2007.

In order to assist you in making your response, there is a downloadable representation form available on the website, which can be returned to the Council via a freepost address: Sandwell MBC, Development House, FREEPOST BM1389, P.O. Box 42, West Bromwich B70 8BR.

You can also:-

• Send us a letter to the freepost address above • Send us an email, to: [email protected] • Send us a fax to: 0121 569 4082

Please use the heading ‘Smethwick AAP – Preferred Options’. Comments must be received by 1st May 2007 to be considered by the Council. A Sustainability Appraisal of the proposals in the Smethwick Area Action Plan has also been prepared. You can request a paper copy, or view it online and it is open for consultation between 19th March to 1st May 2007. Sustainability Appraisal Sustainability Appraisal is a process by which the social, economic, and environmental effects of a plan are evaluated. There are different stages of this process. A Screening Statement is a formal assessment of whether the Sustainability Appraisal needs to include a Strategic Environmental Assessment (in accordance with European Directive 2001/42/EC). A Scoping Report considers what information should be contained in the Sustainability Appraisal and sets out the SA

Framework. This is in preparation.

Appendix 9 - (Article from Birmingham Mail) Appendix 10

Agenda Item X

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Report to the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport

21st February 2007

Smethwick Area Action Plan - Preferred Option Document (Cabinet Forward Plan Ref. No. RT089)

1. Summary Statement

1.1 The Local Development Scheme (LDS) for Sandwell was published in June 2005 with a recent revision taking place in 2006. Contained within the LDS is the Smethwick Area Action Plan (AAP), concentrating on the regeneration of an area at North Smethwick Canalside and Windmill Lane. Consultation began on the AAP during 2006 with the publication of an Issues and Options Paper in May with responses requested by the end of September 2006.

1.2 The Issues and Options Paper was distributed to statutory and non-statutory consultees, presentations were made to Councillors, Town Team Partnerships and Smethwick Town Committee on the various options available for consideration for the regeneration of this area. A joint event with the PCT was also held with Youth Groups in the Smethwick Area to seek their views on how they would like to see their area develop. The outcome of this consultation, together with partnership working with other agencies in the area, has resulted in the preparation of a Preferred Options Document and a Sustainability Appraisal Report, which assesses the social, environmental and economic effects of the proposals.

1.3 The aims of the Preferred Options Document are;

• Ensuring that the social infrastructure, such as education, health and community facilities, is appropriate to serve the existing and proposed communities within the plan area. • Protecting and enhancing the heritage assets of the Smethwick Area.

1.4 This Document has been prepared in line with National, Regional and Local Planning Policy and within the Regulations set out by Central Government. It has also considered a range of issues which need to be factored into the proposals including the need for good quality housing, retention of appropriate employment sites or appropriate relocation sites, provision of schools, health and community facilities, the need for open space, good transport links and the retention and enhancement of the heritage afforded to this particular area.

1.5 The Preferred Options have also been drawn up with reference to the various regeneration initiatives and visions of the Urban Regeneration Company, Regenco, and the Housing Market Renewal Pathfinder, to ensure that the aspirations of all these agencies are brought forward in a deliverable statutory plan. Partnership working with Regenco, English Partnerships, Advantage West Midlands and British Waterways has developed a Planning Framework for the North Smethwick Canalside area, based on a residential led, mixed use area with supporting facilities alongside the Birmingham Canal. It is anticipated that the area to the north, Brindley II, which already benefits from a Residential/Business allocation in the current Unitary Development Plan and an adopted Planning and Design Brief, will kickstart the regeneration of this area.

1.6 Working with the health service has also identified the need for a new acute hospital within the Plan area to meet the Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust’s Towards 2010 agenda. Following extensive research and assessment of a number of sites, it has been agreed that the optimum location for this facility is within the Grove Lane area. As all of the area will not be required for the hospital, there will be other associated uses which could be considered appropriate for this area, including key worker accommodation and research and development uses. Therefore, Option 2 from the Issues and Options Paper will be taken forward for this area for Mixed Use Development including health facilities, residential and employment uses.

1.7 Within the adopted Unitary Development Plan, sites around Black Patch Park, near to the Soho Foundry were allocated for Industrial uses in order to attract investment for a Technology Park. However, this has not come to fruition. A recent Employment Land Survey has revealed that there is no immediate need for further industrial land in this location. As there are no deliverable proposals identified, and to accommodate the wishes of Friends of Black Patch Park to retain the Park area, these allocations have been removed. The land will therefore form a green focal point for any development which takes place on the adjoining sites. The Preferred Option for land adjacent to Soho Foundry has been allocated for Mixed Uses which can incorporate industrial and offices, and possibly leisure, community and educational facilities associated to the Foundry once a suitable re-use has been identified.

1.8 Allocations within the Windmill Eye area will generally be carried forward from the Adopted Unitary Development Plan for predominantly residential uses. However, it is recognised that there is a need to develop a phased development framework in order to bring forward new sites within this area and to accommodate residents displaced through clearance programmes by Housing and the Birmingham/Sandwell Pathfinder projects. This area will be subject to further work for the various character areas which will be prepared as Supplementary Planning Documents following on from the adoption of the Area Action Plan.

1.9 It is proposed to undertake a six-week consultation on the Preferred Options Document commencing on Monday 19th March 2007 until Tuesday 1st May, including an extra two days to allow for Good Friday and Easter Monday. Following consultation, representations will be considered and the AAP revised. The revised AAP is scheduled to be prepared by October 2007, after which it will be submitted to the Secretary of State for formal examination by an independent Inspector. A further report will be submitted later this year prior to the Submission Document being prepared for consultation.

Further details are attached for your information

2. Recommendation

2.1 That the Smethwick Area Action Plan Preferred Options Document and the Sustainability Appraisal Report, as now submitted, be approved as the basis for consultation.

2.2 That any necessary amendments arising from this meeting be made prior to the publication of the Area Action Plan.

2.3 That the Preferred Options Document and the Sustainability Appraisal Report, and issues arising from consultation, be used to inform the content of the Smethwick Area Action Plan Submission Document and that a further report be submitted to the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport in due course.

(1) the recommendation(s) above is/are approved.

(4) the recommendation(s) above is/are approved as now amended.

(5) the recommendations above are not approved.

______Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport

Date ..21st February 2007......

Robert A Lee Director of Planning and Transportation

Contact Officer Hayley Insley Planning Policy Section 0121 569 4254

Smethwick Area Action Plan - Preferred Option Document

3. Strategic Resource Implications

3.1 Production of the Preferred Options Document will be carried out within the identified resources of the Council.

4. Legal and Statutory Implications

4.1 The Preferred Options Document has been prepared in line with The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 and the Local Development Framework (LDF), which is, in effect, a portfolio of the local development documents which will comprise the spatial planning strategy for the area. The Act is accompanied by The Town and Country Planning (Local Development) (England) Regulations 2004, and the Town and Country Planning (Transitional Arrangements) Regulations 2004. The new system came into effect in September 2004.

4.2 The Smethwick Area Action Plan is included in Sandwell’s approved Local Development Scheme (LDS) which has recently been revised and approved by Government Office. The LDS sets a target for a Preferred Options Document to be prepared by March 2007.

4.3 Consultation on the AAP will be carried out in conformity with the Adopted Statement of Community Involvement. The Preferred Options Document will be distributed to local groups and businesses, and a range of other organisations (including ’statutory’ consultees) in order to encourage discussion and feedback.

5. Implications for the Council’s Corporate Priorities

5.1 The Smethwick Area Action Plan supports the Council’s priority of Transforming the Physical Environment, by identifying a planning framework to promote the regeneration of the Smethwick area. However, in doing this, a number of other Corporate Priorities are supported including, A Safe Borough, High Value Jobs, Improving Housing Choice, and Local Communities.

6 Background Details

6.1 Further information is contained in the attached Appendices 1 and 2. Appendix 1 is the Preferred Options Document. Appendix 2 is the Sustainability Appraisal Report.

Source Documents

Sandwell Local Development Scheme Submission Statement of Community Involvement

Appendix 11 Agenda Item X

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Report to the Smethwick Town Committee

20th March 2007

Smethwick Area Action Plan - Preferred Option Document

1. Summary Statement

1.10 The Local Development Scheme (LDS) for Sandwell was published in June 2005 with a recent revision taking place in 2006. Contained within the LDS is the Smethwick Area Action Plan (AAP), concentrating on the regeneration of an area at North Smethwick Canalside and Windmill Lane.

1.11 The new Local Development Framework requires a process of consultation to be carried out. Early consultation was carried out with the preparation of an Issues and Options Paper in May which was distributed to a range of consultees, placed on the Council’s website and reported to Smethwick Town Committee in June 2006. The Paper highlighted issues of concern for the area and suggested Options for consideration to aid regeneration. The outcome of this consultation, together with partnership working with other agencies in the area, has resulted in the preparation of a Preferred Options Document and a Sustainability Appraisal Report, which assesses the social, environmental and economic effects of the proposals.

1.12 The aims of the Preferred Options Document are to encourage a range of housing, including affordable housing, identify areas for employment opportunities, evaluating and protecting open space, improving accessibility, ensuring appropriate social infrastructure is provided and protecting and enhancing the heritage assets.

1.13 This Document has been prepared in line with National, Regional and Local Planning Policy and within the Regulations set out by Central Government. It concentrates on a number of issues including housing, employment, open space, social infrastructure and heritage and includes work undertaken with reference to the regeneration initiatives of Regenco, Urban Living, and other partner agencies. The plan puts forward the following proposals;

RS1 – North Smethwick Canalside -Primarily residential with commercial, light industrial and limited retail.

RS2– Rabone Lane - Mixed Use – Residential and Commercial

WE1 – Windmill Lane - Residential

GL1 – Grove Lane- Employment – Primarily Hospital/B1/Residential

GL2 – Cranford Street -: Mixed use – Residential/Business (B1)

SP1 - Black Patch Park -: Open Space

SP2 – Foundry Lane - Employment (Light industrial/offices)

SP3 – Soho Foundry - Mixed Use (Industrial/Community/leisure/ educational)

1.14 It is proposed to undertake a six-week consultation on the Preferred Options Document commencing on Monday 19th March 2007 until Tuesday 1st May, A drop-in session has been arranged for 22nd March 2007 at the CAP Centre in Windmill Lane between 4.00pm and 7.00pm. Copies of the document have been sent to the Smethwick Members and other consultees and stakeholders and there will be further copies available at the committee.

1.15 Further information will be available at the Town Committee.

Further details are attached for your information

2. Recommendation

2.4 That the Town Committee comment on the Smethwick AAP - Preferred Options Document.

Robert A Lee Director of Planning and Transportation

Contact Officer

Hayley Insley Planning Policy Section 0121 569 4254

Smethwick Area Action Plan - Preferred Option Document

3. Strategic Resource Implications

3.1 Production of the Preferred Options Document will be carried out within the identified resources of the Council.

4. Legal and Statutory Implications

4.3 The Preferred Options Document has been prepared in line with The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 and the Local Development Framework (LDF), which is, in effect, a portfolio of the local development documents which will comprise the spatial planning strategy for the area. The Act is accompanied by The Town and Country Planning (Local Development) (England) Regulations 2004, and the Town and Country Planning (Transitional Arrangements) Regulations 2004. The new system came into effect in September 2004.

4.4 The Smethwick Area Action Plan is included in Sandwell’s approved Local Development Scheme (LDS) which has recently been revised and approved by Government Office. The LDS sets a target for a Preferred Options Document to be prepared by March 2007.

5. Implications for the Council’s Corporate Priorities

6 Background Details

6.1 Further information will be presented at the Town Committee.

6.2 Copies of the Preferred Options Document and the Sustainability Appraisal have already been sent to Councillors and local organisations. Further copies will be available at the Town Committee.

Source Documents

Sandwell Local Development Scheme Submission Statement of Community Involvement

Appendix 12 – Express and Star 23 February 2007

Appendix 13 – Legal Notice – Birmingham Mail 21 March 2007

Appendix 14 – Legal Notice – Express and Star 19 March 2007

Appendix 15 example of acknowledgment letter

My Ref: Your Ref: Please ask for: Hayley Insley Telephone No. 0121 569 4254 E-mail: [email protected] Date: 21st May 2007

Dear

Smethwick Area Action Plan – Preferred Options Document 2007

Thank you for your response to the Smethwick Area Action Plan – Preferred Options Document 2007.

I acknowledge receipt of your comments, which will be taken into account during the next part of the planning process, which is the preparation of the Area Action Plan to be submitted to the Government later this year. Where your comments require a specific response, this will follow shortly.

Please note that comments submitted to the Council will be included in the summary of representations which will appear on the Council’s website (www.sandwell.gov.uk) in due course.

Yours sincerely

Hayley Insley Planning Policy Section

Directorate of Planning and Transportation Robert A. Lee, Director of Planning & Transportation PO Box 42, Development House, Lombard Street, West Bromwich, West Midlands. B70 8RU APPENDIX 16 – Response to Issues and Options

Respondent Summary SMBC Response South Staffordshire Interested in any plans which have a potential to increase Will ensure that the issue of sustainable drainage Water plc demand into the area either from new household or systems is included within the Plan. industrial development. Stress the importance of ensuring that developments are fully sustainable and minimise impact on natural resources. West Midlands Fire No objections to the Plan. Noted. Service Environment Agency Include ‘Protecting and enhancing the natural Encouragement will be given to open up culverted environmental assets of Smethwick’ within Section 4. watercourses where appropriate and encourage more Would like to see the reinstatement of culverted use of sustainable drainage systems. watercourses to open channel. Redevelopment may also The Authority will be preparing a Strategic Flood Risk afford the opportunity to address pollution of Hockley Assessment which, when completed, will inform the Brook, develop an accurate drainage plan for the area and proposals within the AAP prior to its adoption. improve water surface run-off quality to improve the Detailed investigations will be required as part of the existing environment assets. planning application and appropriate reclamation and There is a need to prepare a Strategic Flood Risk mitigation measures identified. Assessment and consider the development of any sites within flood zones. Site investigations will be required prior to determination of any planning application to ascertain level of contamination. Regenco Will be willing to work with the Authority on developing The Council acknowledge the support for the various further, the planning framework for the North Smethwick preferred options within the AAP and will include Canalside. them in the next stage of the Plan. Consider that phased clearance and development of the Windmill Eye is the preferred option and would complement other development adjacent. Consider Option 3, retention of open space and allocation of other sites for broader range of employment uses. Support the option to extend the allocation for mixed use and residential to support the new hospital. Centro The objectives for all the issues need to stated in how they Comments noted and to be included in AAP. will be achieved. Priority should be given to more sustainable forms of transport. Metro Line one should be mentioned although not within the AAP boundary and more reference to bus routes/interchange. There should be safe and direct routes for walking and cycling through new residential areas. West Midlands Regional Consider that the thrust of the options is in accordance Support noted. Assembly with the principles of the Regional Spatial Strategy. Highways Agency Concern about the impact on the Strategic Road Network Comments are noted and will be incorporated within from the proposals within the plan, especially on Junction the Preferred Options document where appropriate. 1 M5 and on the air quality from increased traffic within the area. Priority needs to be given to more sustainable methods of transport and encouragement would be given to the preparation of an Area Travel Plan. Car parking provision should be addressed in the AAP in line with maximum standards set out in government guidance.

The Countryside Unable to provide specific comments at this stage. N/A Agency Inland Waterways Requires the retention of the hidden third lock on the old Comments have been noted and considered for Association Brindley line and that the height of the buildings here inclusion into the AAP where appropriate. would affect the setting of the two listed canal bridges. More detailed information may be incorporated within Reinstatement of the towpaths for pedestrian use on the additional work outside of the AAP, for example as new Main Line canal. part of planning briefs or Supplementary Planning High walls between Bridge Street and Roebuck Lane Documents. Bridges should be retained to keep the industrial feel to the area. Would consider residential moorings in appropriate locations which did not affect the Conservation Area. Proposals put forward to opening up the Canal Arm at Soho Park and Grove Lane. English Heritage Suggest minor changes to text to reflect the protection of Comments noted and will be used to inform the next the historic environment. stage of the AAP. Need to use the Historic Urban Characterisation Study to inform future option for retention of the housing stock, and support protection of the historic environment.

GOWM Concern about the AAP being prepared before the Core There is a need to prepare the Smethwick AAP prior Strategy. to the Core Strategy to ensure investment and Would like to see how the document fits with the wider initiatives currently being proposed have a clear strategic context including RSS and Black Country Study planning framework on which to be based. This will and reference to Regenco and Urban Living. need to be clarified. Advise that the Scoping of the SA should be consulted More information will be included regarding the with the four environmental consultation bodies. linkages to other strategies and agencies and how Ensure that the vision is more strategic and reflects the partnership working will achieve shared aims. community strategy. The Scope of the SA will be consulted upon with the Comments made on the issues regarding housing four main bodies as laid out in the Regulations. provision and links with other agencies and of the need to Other comments have been noted and will be ensure employment sites located outside of centres does incorporated within the Preferred Options document. not include office development. The need to ensure engagement with key stakeholders and to ensure comments are taken on board and to provide more information relating to monitoring and implementation.

English Partnerships Support Option 2 for the Rolfe Street Area to promote the Comments noted and incorporated into AAP redevelopment for a residential led mixed use scheme in Preferred Options document. line with the Planning Framework being prepared under the North Smethwick Canalside Steering Group. GVA Grimley Support the allocation for an acute hospital facility as well Comments incorporated in Preferred Options. as extending the area of mixed use to bring about regeneration of the area. Friends of Black Patch Recommend that the open space allocation is pursued Comments have been noted and will be incorporated Park and the park is protected as part of the historic in the Preferred Options where appropriate. environment. Would like to see the changing rooms and There are no plans to re-open the community centre community centre re-opened and incorporated within the at present but this may be looked at in the future. Friends Vision for the park and allotments. KEB Fabrications Ltd Support Option 2 for residential led mixed use scheme Support for Option 2 noted. Relocation issues will be and would wish to be relocated within the vicinity. dealt with when a detailed scheme is considered. Museums and Tourism Support the promotion of the canal network as a tourist Comments noted. Division attraction but would wish to see stronger references to heritage and conservation in the document. Appendix 17 - Smethwick Area Action Plan – Preferred Options Document 2006 - Representations

Respondent Representation SMBC Response Friends Of Black Patch The Friends of Black Patch Park discussed the Smethwick Land of the former Merry Hill Infant School Park area Action Plan at our meeting on 3 April 2007. We would –land formerly occupied by the school has like to make the following comments beginning with the more been included within the area of land now general and moving on to the specific. allocated for Open Space purposes. However, Section 8: An Overview of the Plan Area -Open Space and the plan does not correctly show the entire Heritage. We would wish endorse the view set out in allocation for the land to the south of this, that paragraph 8.21 that essential to the quality of life of residents formerly occupied by housing on Kitchener is good access to quality green space and therefore the need Street. The land is included within the to enhance and protect such green space. We particularly allocation of SP2 for Employment (Light welcome paragraph 8.26 with its acknowledgement that the Industrial/office) development and is Merry Hill Allotments are well used; the value of Black Patch mentioned as such in the text for this proposal Park to Birmingham as well as Sandwell residents and the campaign by the Friends of Black Patch Park to see the entire However, whilst some office development may park retained as open space. As a group we would be be acceptable, we are of the opinion that delighted to be involved in the development of a Framework residential on such a piecemeal basis would for the area as part of the Area Action Plan. Attached is a not be appropriate at this time given some of vision statement developed by the Friends outlining some of the neighbouring uses and lack of local the aspirations we have for the park and surrounding area. facilities. It is considered that residential would We agree wholeheartedly with the statement in paragraph only work if part of a much larger 8.28 that one of Smethwick’s assets is its rich and diverse comprehensive development which includes heritage. We very much welcome the decision to explore the the necessary social infrastructure to be put in potential for renovating what survives of Boulton and Watts place at the same time. Proposals contained Soho Foundry and finding suitable uses for the refurbished within the plan have to be deliverable within Foundry buildings. However, we feel that there ought to be the timescale of the plan under the current some recognition within the Area Action Plan of the planning legislation and unfortunately, any contribution of Black Patch Park to this rich and diverse residential scheme in this area will be more history. Hockley and Boundary (also known as Shireland) long term. Brooks, which meet in the park, are the ancient boundaries Merry Hill Community Centre - the Council between Staffordshire and Warwickshire. The land was part of have no plans to re-open the centre in the near Sycamore Farm owned at one time by William Murdoch the future although they are willing to discuss third partner in the Boulton and Watt triumvirate, and options from any other groups who may wish eventually came into the ownership of the Tangyes and to take out a lease of the building. Should you Pilkingtons but perhaps most significant of all is the parks require any further information, please contact history as a traditional gathering place for the Romany Gypsy me and I will provide you with a contact name community as evidenced in Ted Rudge's book Brumroamin and number. Birmingham and Midland Romany Gypsy and Traveller Culture¿, many of whose descendents settled in the area following their eviction to create Black Patch Park.

Preferred Option SP1 Black Patch Park. We fully support the proposal to re-allocate the northern and eastern part of Black Patch Park back to Open Space. We also fully endorse the reference to Black Patch Park as a potential focal green focal point for other developments in the area. This is central to our vision for the future of the park and surrounding area. However, there are two issues we have with this section of the Area Action Plan:

1. The land formerly occupied by Merry Hill Infant School. This land was originally part of Black Patch Park and is now one of the most valuable parts of the park from a biodiversity perspective. It is the view of the Friends that this should be included in the area to be retained as Open Space. It would appear from the map on page 40 that this area has been retained as open space but we would welcome clarification on this. The land flanking Kitchener Street, formerly occupied by terraced housing, was built on before the park was created and is clearly marked by the same mature Poplar and Plane trees that surround the rest of the park. As part of the development of a framework for the area the Friends group have positive suggestions we would like to make as to the future development of this area including housing or office development overlooking the park which would help enhance the area and increase security for park users.

2. Merry Hill Community Centre. We would like to see the Community Centre reopened as a valuable resource for the local community. It is our understanding that tens of thousands of pounds of public funds have been spent on this building in recent years which until recently was used as changing facilities by the Warley League who used the pitches for regular fixtures. The park remains very popular with footballers but because there are no changing facilities it cannot at present be used for league games. We see potential for this building not just as changing facilities for sports, but also as a base for park staff and as a resource for the educational and community use of the park. There is a significant lack of such facilities to the east in Birmingham’s Soho Ward, and with at least five Primary Schools and a large Secondary School within easy walking distance of the park and access to many others via the Midland Metro and the parks proximity to the main line canal and Soho Foundry - the potential for education use is immense.

Environment Agency The Environment Agency welcomes the commitment to the Sandwell are currently in the process of completion of the SFRA and that it will be used to assess and preparing a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment amend the AAP where necessary before adoption. We for the Borough which will hopefully outline continue to offer guidance and advice should it be required. more information to be included within the However, in the absence of the SFRA the Environment proposals of the AAP. The Council will Agency cannot support the current preferred option document continue to work with the Environment Agency because, as stated in previous correspondence, current in order to establish sites where development proposed site uses and allocations may not be sustainable may become problematic, or suggest from a flood risk point of view. mitigation measures and this will be reflected in the Submission document. Overview of the Plan Area The Environment Agency, in general, welcomes the overview The possibility of opening up culverted of the plan area. We would again reiterate our comments watercourses will be explored as they will regarding culverted watercourse, in that, where contribute to the creation or extension of redevelopments afford the opportunity, consideration should wildlife habitats. Therefore, text will be be given to the reinstatement of the watercourses into open inserted within the Open Space section of the channel. This would be beneficial for the creation of wildlife Submission Document. Encouragement will habitats, increasing public enjoyment of the watercourse and also be given to the inclusion of Sustainable creating sense of ownership. We consider that this should be Drainage systems where appropriate. included under either 'Open Space and Heritage', 'Urban Design', 'Linkages' or 'Planning Obligations'. The Preferred Options Environment Agency would also recommend the inclusion of Sustainable Drainage although this could form part of the Rolfe Street SFRA. To establish the suitability of site RS2 for Preferred Options Sites residential development and the likelihood of ROLFE STREET - It should be noted that there is an area flooding, further work is being sought from within the 2nd preferred option - Rabone lane, which is consultants currently preparing the Authority’s located in floods 2 and 3, medium and high probability SFRA. This work will identify any problems respectively. Consideration to this issue should be with this allocation and suitable mitigation considered at an early stage as it may mean the allocation is measures can be proposed. not suitable for residential use. This further strengths the need I will contact the Environment Agency in due for the SFRA to be in place, which as part of its criteria will course when further information is available. undertake the sequential test and look at sites that are outside Appropriate remediation will be required as of the floodplain first and sites inside the floodplain as a last part of the development of these sites and in resort. accordance with PPS23 – Planning and Pollution Control. The text within the Both of the Rolfe Street allocations are over 1 hectare in size Submission Document will be included to and therefore space for water must be taken into reflect this requirement. consideration at an early stage and designed into any layout scheme. Given the previous uses of both of these areas there Windmill Eye is potential to cause an impact to controlled waters and therefore remediation will be required in accordance with PPS The proposed sites within the Windmill Eye will 23 - Planning and Pollution Control. be also be subject to further work by consultants and appropriate mitigation WINDMILL EYE - There is an area adjacent to the proposed measures suggested. Phase 3 Development, which is designated as flood zones 2 and 3 as defied by the Environment Agency's flood maps. As Grove Lane part of this part of the phasing consideration should be given to the proximity of the flood zones and mitigation measures I understand that none of the sites within the offered. Grove Lane zone are liable to flooding. However, consideration will be given to GROVE LANE - Again given the size of these allocations introducing water features within proposed space for water must be taken into consideration at an early development by enhancing the canal subject to stage and designed into any layout scheme. discussions with British Waterways. I also understand that there is a culverted SOHO PARK - There is an area of land adjacent to the watercourse along Grove Street which will Hockley Brook that may be at risk from flooding. Although we have to be considered within any future have no objections to public open space being located in this redevelopment schemes. area, as it is classed as water compatible in line with PPS 25, there should be no raising of ground levels within this area as Soho Park this could off set the risk on to third party land. The flood zones within this area may potentially also effect the SP3 I note your comments regarding the risk of allocation and again consideration should be given to the flooding on the area adjacent to Hockley Brook proximity of the flood zones and mitigation measures offered. and the need to ensure that ground levels are not raised which may off set the risk to third Sustainability Appraisal4. Plan and Programme party land, and the need to consider mitigation Given the identified associated flood risk and levels of measures for site SP3 which may be affected contaminated we consider the following plan must be included by flood zones. This will be clarified by the and comments amended: further work requested by the Consultants.

Plan or Programme Relevant Objectives , Targets or Sustainability Appraisal Indicators Implications for Smethwick Area Action Plan PPS 23 Pollution Control No of planning application PPS 23 and PPS 25 will be included within the developed on previously developed land list of Plans or Programmes to be considered PPS 25 Development and Flood Risk Number of planning in developing the Sustainability Appraisal. applications approved against Environment Agency advise on This will be rectified in the review of the SA. flood risk grounds. In addition, text in the Baseline Information Baseline Information was not corrected following your previous As stated in previous correspondence the flood zone comments for which I apologise. The text will comments are incorrect and should read as follows: “This now be amended to read “This area has a area has a high probability of flooding. The chance of flooding high probability of flooding. The chance of each year is greater then 1.0% (1 in 100). The above refers to flooding each year is greater than 1.0% (1 land in flood zone 3. Land in flood zone 2 has a medium in 100).” probability of flooding. The chance of flooding each year in flood zone 2 is between a 1 in 100 and 1 in 1000 (1% - 0.1%)”.

Natural England As you will be aware, Natural England has been formed by I note your comments regarding the need to bringing together English Nature (EN), the landscape, access ensure that there is appropriate provision of and recreation elements of the Countryside Agency (CA) and green infrastructure and accessible natural the environmental land management functions of the Rural greenspace and that this is addressed at an Development Service (RDS). However, as part of this early stage in the planning process. I consider response I would refer you to the letter from English Nature that the proposals that have been put forward dated 13 June 2006 which considered the issues and options contribute to this aim, opening up the canal for this AAP. network and associated greenspace adjacent and linking this to existing or future With the above in mind, I can confirm that Natural England’s development sites which will improve the main interest lies with the provision of green infrastructure and quality of life for residents by providing accessible natural greenspace and we are not in a position to accessible greenspace. provide specific comments on the options for the future development of the action plan area. This being said, I would Contributions from developers are already also refer you to our submission with respect to the Black being requested to enhance existing facilities Country Core Strategy which considers, amongst other things, where there is already appropriate provision, issues such as climate change, high quality design and or by creating new areas of open space or play sustainable transport. space where there is an identified deficit. In terms of the provision of green infrastructure and However, I acknowledge the importance of accessible natural greenspace, we welcome the recognition providing a series of linked greenspaces that this is given in the preferred options document. However, throughout the area which will be incorporated we believe that it is important that the Council maps or plans wherever possible in the future proposals of the priorities for green infrastructure and accessible natural the Area Action Plan. greenspace at an early stage. This will clearly show which existing areas need to be protected and where new green infrastructure and accessible natural greenspace is required. By adopting this approach, it is clear to developers which existing areas of green infrastructure and accessible natural greenspace they will be expected to maintain and enhance and where they may be expected to provide new areas.

This approach is supported by ‘The Green Infrastructure Prospectus for the West Midlands Region’, a document prepared on behalf of the West Midlands Regional Assembly’s Environment Partnership. It aims to highlight the role of Green Infrastructure, encourage greater investment in it and ensure that it is proactively planned for in all developments in the Region. It also aims to show that Green Infrastructure should be appreciated as an essential element of delivering sustainable communities, underpinning growth and regeneration. The Prospectus sees new growth, proposed in the Region by the Regional Spatial Strategy and related documents, as an opportunity to provide exemplars of sustainable development; to enhance and extend Green Infrastructure so as to complement and balance the built environment, link wider environmental processes and deliver a high quality of life for all.

The Prospectus recognises that there is no comprehensive approach to the mapping or planning of Green Infrastructure in the Region. It urges that Green Infrastructure needs to be embedded in statutory spatial plans and strategy documents from regional to local level. It suggests methods of assessing Green Infrastructure and how connectivity of green areas can be encouraged. Whatever, the provision of new green areas will have a greater impact in terms of their biodiversity value if their design is based on sound ecological principles. Bloor Homes As you are aware the Company controls land identified within Acknowledge support for the allocation of GL2 parcel GL2 on Plan 6 of the AAP, comprising the Atlas Metals within the plan for future residential use. The site including the redundant office building, Atlas House. council believe that the redevelopment of this site for predominantly residential use will help The Preferred Option - We would at the outset wish to to regenerate this part of the Borough, express our support in principle for the Council’s proposals for especially given its close proximity to site GL1 the area; in producing an AAP for Smethwick with clear aims which is proposed for a new acute hospital and land use allocations, the Council are providing a catalyst facility, B1 employment uses and housing. for much needed investment. Similarly we would wish to express our support for the proposed allocation GL2. A The Council acknowledges the importance of predominantly residential scheme is most likely to secure the providing assistance in relocation of existing regeneration of the site in line with the Council’s aspirations businesses in order for redevelopment of these for Smethwick. A residential led scheme is also in our view sites to be realized. It is important that complimentary to proposals for the land opposite allocated for appropriate agencies work together to assist the new hospital and B1 and residential development under businesses in this area who wish to relocate, in GL1. particular, uses such as Atlas Metals which contribute to the economy of the Borough. Bloor Homes experience PPS3 emphasises that in identifying Planning policy supports such uses locating land for residential development Local Planning Authorities within the areas predominantly identified for should have regard to the deliverability of the sites. Sandwell Industrial uses, in this case, existing MBC can therefore have comfort in the fact that the majority of employment sites or the Business Zone and I the GL2 site is in the control of one of the UK’s largest am sure that, subject to certain conditions, a privately owned house builders. satisfactory site can be found within the plan area, or within the Borough. JS Bloor (Tamworth) Ltd, the regional office that will be responsible for the development of the Atlas Metals site, have The Council is aware of the need to ensure constructed over 5000 houses in Birmingham and the Black that residential sites are able to come forward Country over the last 20 years and in doing so have gained in advance of the adoption of the Area Action significant experience in regeneration schemes in the West Plan. We can provide assurance that whilst Midlands. Examples of some of the larger developments applications for housing would be considered include:Former British Gas Works, Tipton - this heavily premature at the present time, we understand contaminated brownfield site was reclaimed over a two year that proposals within the unadopted Area period and a high quality residential development of Action Plan will be treated as a material approximately 500 dwellings has now been completed. consideration and afforded greater weight as Loxdale Sidings, Bilston - the reclamation of this site involved they proceed through the planning process. extensive canal refurbishment and canal side landscaping Where the proposals have received no works, with the development of 197 dwellings nearing objections, and are in general conformity with completion. In addition JS Bloor (Tamworth) Ltd have been the emerging AAP and RSS Revision, I would selected by Birmingham City Council as the ‘preferred expect a positive view taken to be taken on developer’ to lead the regeneration of the Egghill estate in planning applications being submitted, Northfield, a scheme that will eventually provide up to 500 especially if developers worked closely with dwellings, along with new retail community and public open the Local Planning Authority on pre-application space facilities. discussions.

As such JS Bloor (Tamworth) Ltd have developed a strong I acknowledge your comments regarding sites track record in delivering regeneration schemes in the West not allocated within the Area Action Plan which Midlands. The company is committed to working with the may come forward as part of the Council to secure the early delivery of a high quality scheme redevelopment of adjacent sites and the need on the Atlas Metals site. We do however have some for a more pragmatic approach to be taken in comments that the Council will need to consider and address the application of policy. In the event that any in the Submission version of the AAP. These are set out redevelopment required further land assembly below. in order to bring forward appropriate development, it may be possible to set aside Relocation sites - Obviously the redevelopment of the GL2 the existing policies if acceptable justification site will require the relocation of Atlas Metals as the owner was provided and the benefit of new wishes to rationalize and consolidate the business. Ideally the development outweighed the loss of the land owner would like to remain in the area on a smaller site, and for other uses, for example, employment land. we would suspect that this will be true of many businesses (in This would need to be looked at on an particular scrap yards) that will need to be relocated as a individual basis. result of proposals in the AAP. The Council recognizes this as an issue in Section 8 and at Paragraph 8.12 state that by allocating land for alternative purposes in the AAP area they hope to discourage the proliferation of scrap yards. At 8.13 the Council state that they will along with Regenco assist employers find alternative sites for their business. We consider that a more proactive approach, and the one most likely to deliver the desired result, is for the Council to identify in the AAP a site or area that is considered suitable for the relocation of scrap yards. Whilst this may concentrate an undesirable (but necessary) use in a single area it will free up wider tracts of land for regeneration and environmental improvements.

Ensuring delivery - The draft AAP has clearly been prepared to be in conformity with the Regional Spatial Strategy and the Regional Spatial Revision. These documents both seek to concentrate housing development within the urban area as far as possible, and with the RSS Revision, to greatly increase the overall rate of housing provision with immediate effect. This will require the redevelopment of large areas of poor quality employment land, which has in the past been protected for its own sake. The recent Panel Report into the Phase 1 RSS Revision states that it is important that sufficient surplus employment land is transferred to enable housing targets for the Black Country to be met.

The draft AAP certainly provides an early manifestation of this approach, however, the document is not proposed to be adopted until at the earliest February 2009. Given the pressing need to increase housing provision, and given that most regeneration schemes, particularly those with extensive remediation requirements, have lengthy lead-in times, developers of these sites will generally wish to negotiate and obtain satisfactory planning permissions as soon as possible. There is an increased likelihood with the Smethwick AAP now reaching a more advanced stage, and with its proposals being formulated with adopted and emerging regional guidance, for applications to be submitted in advanced of the February 2009 adoption date of the AAP. We would therefore encourage the Council to again adopt a proactive, delivery focused approach when presented with early applications, which are in general conformity with the draft AAP and subsequently the emerging RSS Revision.

Land Assembly - Finally, in assembling land for redevelopment purposes in lone with the allocations in the AAP it is possible that further parcels not allocated become available. The AAP indicates that any proposals for land not allocated for alternative uses in the AAP will be determined in accordance with the UDP. However, it is considered that where wider land is involved in an otherwise appropriate and comprehensive scheme, consistent with the general theme of the AAP, the Council should take a pragmatic approach and not employ any restrictive UDP policies (such as those protecting employment land) on those parts of the site falling outside AAP allocation boundaries.

Mr John Hutchinson Black Patch Park and the site of the former school should be it is the intention to carry forward the allocation authorised to open space and the park restored to its original of open space for site SP1 to the next stage of condition. the Area Action Plan.

Mr Jeffery Nash This space should be used for an Olympic Swimming Pool. Following consideration of your comments, With its new access from Birmingham etc the motorways etc and those of others consulted, there is clear its got to be a winner for all. evidence through partnership working with other agencies that the most beneficial Surely the money for the N.H.S 'New Hospital' could be better approach in this instance is for the wider spent on upgrading buildings at Dudley Road. There by regeneration of the Grove Lane site which keeping 2 Hospital sites, one for the "second cities" over spill, would include a hospital as well as other "if" there is an emergency and for major RTA's etc. With no Employment and Residential uses, whilst loss of beds or A·&E facilities at both sites. leisure facilities will be considered elsewhere within the Borough. Cape Hill Trading 8.1 - 8.14 I am pleased to see that the government Delivering good quality, affordable housing acknowledge the fact that there is a need for more homes/ with associated social infrastructure to support housing need for the Smethwick area. I hope they can bring and complement it is one of the main the dates forward to ease the problem. objectives of the Smethwick Area Action Plan.

8.33 - 8.38 I hope the regeneration of Smethwick will take special interest in Education, Social Infrastructure, Health and Leisure and Community Facilities as there are not enough Schools, Nursery Schools, Health Centres and Leisure facilities for people in this area.

People have to go out of their area to access most of these facilities. Council For British An Overview of the plan area I acknowledge that the plans within the Archaeology General- the maps are poorly reproduced and very difficult to document were poorly printed which will be read. Plan 1- key includes ‘heritage sites’ but none seem to be rectified at the next stage. shown on the map. I can confirm that there was one heritage site P21 Open Space and Heritage- why are these two issues shown on the plan, that of Soho Foundry. lumped together? Heritage is rightly identified as a key issue However, due to the poor printing, this was not for the area and therefore ought to be described in its own very clear. This will also be rectified for the right. It would be better throughout the document to refer to Submission document. ‘the historic environment’ rather than ‘heritage’. Heritage is a Open Space and Heritage will be dealt with as woolly term but historic environment specifically refers to separate subject areas within the Submission physical features. AAP. References to heritage will be changed to the historic environment to reflect the Para 8.29 - Also need to mention the conservation area, and physical features. archaeology remains in the Sandwell Sites and Monuments Record. The historic environment represented by historic Para 8.29 will be altered to reflect the need to buildings and structures, archaeology remains and recognise the historic environment for its townscapes contributes to the area’s character. It is important contribution to its sense of place and that the historic environment is protected and enhanced, and contribute positively to the area’s regeneration. its profile raised, not only for its intrinsic importance but also because of the contribution it makes to a sense of place and The recommended changes to para 8.31 to its ability to inspire the design o0f new development and raise reflect UDP policies and PPG16 will be its quality (it is not just a ‘heritage trail’ but also contributes incorporated within the Submitted Document to positively to the area’s regeneration- as implied in para 8.32) acknowledge the impact of development on areas of archaeological importance. Para 8.30 - Could also mention specific scheduled ancient monuments here With regard to Preferred Option SP3, the text will be amended to refer to Soho Foundry as a Para 8.31 - Also need to mention archaeology remains in the Listed Building rather than a Heritage building. Sandwell Sites and Monuments Record. The second sentence of this para needs rewording to make it consistent Sustainability Appraisal Report with UDP policies and with PPG 16. Suggested rewording: It The text outlining implications for the is vital that before any development proposals within areas of Smethwick Area Action Plan with regards the potential archaeology importance or likely to affect any West Midlands RSS will be changed to reflect archaeological remains in the Sandwell Sites and Monuments the wider heritage area rather than just the Record are considered, archaeological assessments, canal network. In addition, the implications of including field evaluations, are undertaken to determine PPS1 for delivering sustainable development whether the impact on archaeological remains is acceptable. will include the protection of the historic Conditions may be imposed requiring archaeological environment. excavation and/or historic building recording in advance of commencement of development, which will reveal structural Baseline information for the cultural heritage remains and artefacts that will contribute to knowledge of the importance and condition will also need to area’s historic development and have educational potential. include those sites on the Sites and Monuments Record which are non-designated Preferred Options sites and will be considered accordingly. General- although heritage is rightly identified as a key issue, Likewise, text in Para 4.6 will be amended to there seems to be very little mention of it in the site-specific include the wider historic environment. texts. You have suggested that Sustainability Preferred Option SP3 - Soho Foundry is a listed building not a Objective 9 is changed to “built and historic ‘heritage building’ environment” or “historic environment” rather than just make reference to “built Sustainability Appraisal Report environment”. However, these are the sustainability objectives that have been Context, baseline and sustainability objectives adopted for Sandwell as a whole and are not West Midlands RSS- Implications for Smethwick AAP- second subject to change at the present time. Should sentence should be: Also need to ensure that the historic a review of the Objectives take place in the environment, consisting of historic buildings and structures, future, these suggestions may be incorporated. archaeological remains and historic landscapes and townscapes, is protected and enhanced (the historic Para 5.17 (6b) will be amended appropriately environment includes far more tan just the canal network) to reflect the need to protect the historic environment. as will the section within the PPS1- Need to achieve sustainable development, which methodology section (para 5.20). includes protection of the historic environment I agree that the Options Assessment does not Baseline Information truly recognise the impact and potential Cultural Heritage importance and condition- the baseline mitigation to the wider historic environment indicators must include non-designated sites as well- within the plan boundary except for that of the archaeological sites on the Sites and Monuments Record and Soho Foundry. This will be rectified in the locally listed buildings Submission document. Para 4.6 final bullet point - historic environment rather than heritage, and avoid singling out just the designated sites- the entire historic environment is an important asset of the area, whether or not it’s designated.

Sustainability Objectives- there needs to be specific reference to the historic environment, objective 9 should read ‘built and historic environment’ or just ‘historic environment’ rather than ‘built environment’ Para 5.17 strategy for AAP - 6b- Allow sympathetic development on sites of historic or archaeological importance- this phrase is vague risks inappropriate development which would be unsustainable in terms of the historic environment. It would be better to say ‘allow development which does not have an adverse effect but protects and enhances the historic environment’. Methodology Para 5.20 - 6b also needs to refer to archaeological remains and to her aspects of the historic environment. Option assessment - Other than SP3, Soho Foundry, the impact on the historic environment and mitigation does not seem to be mentioned in ay of these tables. References to the canals appear to relate to wildlife rather than historic environment importance. GVA Grimley As you are aware we are instructed by the Sandwell and West Comments have been noted and will be Birmingham NHS Hospitals Trust in relation to the Towards incorporated within the Submission Document. 2010 Programme. The Towards 2010 Programme have been examining different options for delivering health care in the The Council will continue to work with the NHS Sandwell and West Birmingham area. Trust and their agents in bringing forward a new hospital as part of a wider regeneration A considerable amount of work has been conducted by the scheme for the Grove Lane site. Programme, and their advisers and a preferred option has been identified which has been subject to NHS led public consultation which concluded during February 2007.

After reviewing the Preferred Options document and, in particular, the preferred option for the wider Grove Lane area (GL1) we welcome the fact that our earlier comments have been incorporated. We are extremely supportive of the weight in planning terms that the Preferred Options document provides to our proposals, which reflects our discussions to date. The preferred option for Grove Lane provides a positive planning policy framework within which the hospital proposal can be implemented.

We also note the references to the potential for related residential and B1 uses and recognise the role that the new hospital could play in acting as a catalyst in bringing forward the development, along with wider regeneration proposals in the area. We particularly note in Section 6 how the document underlines the importance for the provision and accessibility of adequate community and health facilities to support the current and future populations in the area, in particular health services. This is vital for the quality of life of residents within the Borough.

We have been engaged (and will do so in the future) in regular dialogue with the local authority, RegenCo, AWM and the Black Country Consortium on a number of matters, particular with regard to public sector intervention in land assembly. We have also provided a representation to the recent Black Country Joint Core Strategy consultation period which we attach for your information. As a matter of detail please note that the main Outline Business Case (OBC) will be prepared over the next year with a view to submission in Spring 2008. Alongside this a further OBC is currently being prepared for land acquisition which it is hoped, will be approved during the Summer of 2007.

Based on our current programme it is anticipated that an outline planning application will be submitted to your authority in late 2007. It is hoped that construction of the hospital will commence during 2010 with it being completed during 2013.

In conclusion then, we are very supportive of both the preferred option for Grove Lane and the other references within the document that defines the site as the proposed location for the future development of the acute hospital facility. We look forward to working collaboratively with the Local Authority to achieve the appropriate land assembly required and early planning permission for the development. In drawing up your final AAP, we would be pleased to collaborate with you in providing any additional information you require on the hospital delivery programme.

Children And Young As a policy officer working in the Children and Young People’s Comments have been noted. Peoples Services Service, I wanted to highlight the wider role of schools and Children’s Centres as hubs within the community. In line with the Government’s target that by 2010 all schools and children’s centres will provide a core offer of services.

The extended Services Team are currently working with schools, children’s centres, voluntary and community sector partners and health services to develop localised partnerships (known as Core Offer Partnerships). The aim is that these partnerships work together to provide services and activities all year round to children, young people, families and the community and focal points for accessing services. The document refers to Building Schools for the Future in paragraph 8.33 and it should be noted that Holly Lodge High School, which is just outside of the AAP is involved in the BSF programme.

A key part of the vision for BSF is the inclusive nature of all Secondary schools in Sandwell and the fact that they will provide a hub for services including health and community access to facilities e.g. IT, sports facilities etc. BSF will therefore impact on the communities within Smethwick and those within the AAP.

Mr Ronald Collins P.28 Para 8.55 The Public Realm - careful and sympathetic Comments have been noted. design. P.40. The future of the community centre (building) will be required. Should not remain uncertain. If you are at all interested in maintaining / enhancing Listed Soho Foundry (and other Listed structures), then you must tidy up Black Patch Park which will act as your welcoming approach for visitors to these Historically Important Buildings. Black Patch Park itself has even more historical importance. Also, if the damage has not been done, already, evict the heinous scrap metal processing business that rumbles, clatters and vibrates terribly, right next door (Dunn’s).Even without Heritage Lottery Funding the site of Soho Foundry must be preserved. What kind of Local Authority would fail to do such a thing? Any other part of Europe that had such a historically rich resource would use this feature to attract tourists (at least). A well-maintained Black Patch Park is obviously necessary. History, Science, Education, Nature, Leisure, Biodiversity, Wildlife, Ancient History, Social History, Sport, Play, Community, Trees, Quality of Life, Climate Change. Need I go on? Advantage West The AAP for Smethwick provides an opportunity for the I acknowledge your concerns regarding the Midlands council to address some of the spatial issues associated with need for good quality employment sites being ensuring a range of employment and other opportunities are identified to secure the local economy and made available. The agency will be looking to the AAP to help provide jobs for local people and the potential support the delivery of improvements to the local economy. to include these sites within a mixed use area. This will be achieved through the development of a spatial Where relocation of existing businesses is land-use policy approach that: required for regeneration to occur, the Council with other agencies will assist wherever - Encourages appropriate development that will increase possible to attempt to identify new suitable investor confidence Assists in the creation of new premises, either within the new scheme or infrastructure within the local area if possible. Helps grow the economic involvement of the population The Council also acknowledges your support Increases learning and skills opportunities for the other issues identified in your Facilitates environmental improvements. representation regarding the provision of appropriate infrastructure to open up new sites It will be important for local authorities like Sandwell to be and to ensure their sustainability, the support very clear on the need to protect valuable employment land for mixed use development on Brindley II and wherever it exists, especially where such land is coming the need for complementary development on under pressure for residential development. There are areas Rolfe Street and Rabone Lane and the identified for industrial and other employment-generating promotion of good, quality design for new development throughout the Black Country that will still need developments. to be protected from alternative land uses despite the drive for more housing land within major urban areas. Your other comments regarding reference to the Panel Report of the Black Country Study, The AAP should more clearly emphasis the importance of setting out the aims and objectives of the AAP such land uses / sites to the creation of a diverse and in a list and the need to accommodate balanced portfolio of employment opportunities and the need scrapyards in appropriate locations have also to retail such sites. This will facilitate economic vitality and been noted. viability and is part of a truly spatial and sustainable approach to development. The work undertaken as part of the Black Country Study indicates that while a significant amount of land currently in industrial and other employment use will be reused for housing, it will still be necessary to retain / improve other areas for employment-related activity, as well as identify new employment sites. There is no reason to believe this need could not be met in part through physical and infrastructure improvements to some present employment sites; alongside the removal of physical barriers to the delivery of employment land, social constraints, could be addressed through upskilling the workforce, infrastructure improvements and / or encouraging diversification. It will be important to consider these issues before such sites are de- designated.

In the interests of transparency, you will be aware that the Agency has been involved in several projects in and around Smethwick, including those at Brindley ll (Plan 4) and Soho Foundry (plan 7). Advantage West Midlands is also closely involved with other schemes in the wider area, including a mixed use regeneration-led development at Hill Top, the development of a multifunctional arts and cultural complex at the Public in West Bromwich and the housing market pathfinder initiative. It remains committed to these and other initiatives in the Sandwell area and will be looking to the AAP to help deliver meaningful and lasting regeneration and development opportunities in Smethwick to assist in the rejuvenation of the Black Country. Comments The Agency’s further comments are set out below. Paragraph 5.3 - Brindley ll The council’s continued commitment to mixed use / housing development as adopted through the Unitary Development Plan is noted, as is the fact that the site is not part of the proposals within the AAP and this is not subject to consultation. Paragraph 6.8 - 6.17 - regional context This section should clearly now reflect in some measure the recently published Panel report into the Black Country Study, in particular as it relates to mechanisms for transfer of land between various uses. Paragraph 7.8 - 7.9 The Agency notes the aim of the AAP as set out here. It might be more appropriate to set out a series of aims / objectives for the AAP (see also paragraph 3.1, which describes the purpose of the AAP) in a clearly expressed list, to make it easy for users of the document to understand how and where it is being directed and what will be expected of developers and investors to achieve those aims. This would also provide a more strategic background to the subsequent area-specific sections. Paragraph 8.6 The Agency notes and welcomes the promotion through the AAP of good design as an intrinsic element of residential and other development. Paragraph 8.7 - 8.14 – employment. Subject to the comments above, the Agency is generally supportive of the approach being proposed by the council towards employment issues. It welcomes the council’s commitment to identifying good quality employment sites, both for new companies and to accommodate existing companies that may wish to relocate.

With regard to the issues of scrapyards, the Agency recognizes the potential for such uses to be inappropriately located and to act as ‘bad neighbour’ uses in some circumstances. However, it is perhaps inappropriate to suggest that all such uses will be in conflict with wider regeneration aims (paragraph 8.12) without some sort of qualification. Such uses do provide a mechanism for recycling and reusing materials of various kinds and ‘clusters’ if similar activities in appropriate locations will represent an opportunity to manage environmental impacts in a more sustainable way, for example through reducing carbon emissions. In addition, certain recycling processes represent dynamic and evolving industries in their own right and the West Midlands is emerging as a market leader in areas such as the reuse of fuels and the recovery of certain types of metal. Where these types of specialist recycling activities occur they should be encouraged.

Paragraph 8.33 - 8.38. The Agency notes and supports in principle the commitment of the council to ensure that social infrastructure, education, health and leisure and community facilities are addressed in the AAP. This accords with priorities identified in the WMES, including Action No.18 (implement initiative to increase basic skills, particularly in regeneration zones, to tackle barriers to employment and address recruitment shortages in key sectors) and the aims outlines under Pillar 4, whereby the development of sustainable communities is encouraged: Successful, sustainable local economies and communities need an environment (real and perceived) that is attractive, safe and offers high quality social and cultural infrastructure. The priorities for action are:

Prevention of crime and the fear of crime, Improvement of housing choice, Promotion of environmental awareness and improvement; enhancement of cultural opportunities; Reduction of health inequalities - action to counter poor health and poor access to care leading to improvements in productivity and economic activity of communities. Paragraph 7.4, WMES Paragraph 8.48 - 8.51 Linkages. The Agency welcomes the intention to improve linkages between and within areas of North Smethwick. It notes in particular the intention to improve access across the Birmingham Canal adjacent to Brindley ll and the desire to see enhanced public transport and road links for heavy goods within the area.

Preferred Options Sites - The AAP sets out proposals for a series of sites in the area where allocations that are at variance with the Unitary Development Plan are identified. The Agency would look to the council to include commercial and employment-related opportunities as part of the mixed- use approach to the allocations, especially where they are intended to take place on land currently allocated for employment or industrial uses. This would accord with the principle of providing sustainable communities with local access to jobs and other opportunities.

1. Rolfe Street - Advantage West Midlands has historically had interests in land forming part of the site known as Brindley ll shown on Plan 4. More recently, it has entered a Public/ Private Partnership with a development partner to bring forward the site. This will be developed as a residential allocation and a brief has already been agreed. Brindley ll forms no part of this consultation; in the interests of the good planning of the area, any scheme that comes forward for sites RS1 and RS2 should complement it. The Agency has also worked with the council on the delivery of land at Rolfe Street / Rabone Lane and there is a desire to work further with partner organizations on identifying and delivering a relocation strategy for existing businesses that might be affected by proposals for the area. In general terms, the proposals for sites RS1 and RS2 represent a positive mechanism for uplifting land values in the area. Importantly, any development should pay due regard to the canal network in particular, in terms of building design and orientation.

2. Windmill Eye -The Agency notes the residential allocation for this site. Any substantive residential redevelopment should be accompanied by the protection or provision of appropriate levels of environmental and social infrastructure, such as open space, community facilities and educational and health services.

3. Grove Lane - Advantage West Midlands notes the proposed new hospital identified on site GL1 and welcomes the associated economic and social regenerative benefits it may bring. It also notes the proposed mixed-use development for both this site and GL2, including B1 business uses. The use of buffer strips between the redevelopment areas and adjacent industrial uses is welcomed, as this may generally be expected to reduce possible conflicts of interest between existing and new occupants.

4. Soho Park -Advantage West Midlands has had some involvement in the area shown on Plan 7, in particular at Soho Foundry. Avery Weigh Tronix is one of the larger employers in the Sandwell area. With regard to site SP2, a light industrial / ancillary office use as identified would represent an appropriate solution to the redevelopment of the site; Agency supports the suggestion that it could be used to house relocated businesses from elsewhere within the AAP. Site SP3 is identified as a mixed-use location providing industrial, educational, community and leisure opportunities. This would provide a range of employment options as well as helping secure the future of the historic Soho Foundry itself. Again, the issue of recycling uses is discussed; the Agency recognizes the incongruity of open traditional scrapyard uses where environmental improvements are being sought as part of the regeneration of certain areas, but would again urge the council to be aware of the positive economic and other implications associated with higher end and emerging recycling technologies.

Highways Agency The Highways Agency (HA) welcomes the opportunity to I note your comments regarding the need for continue its involvement in the production of this AAP. Our appropriate assessment on the impact of the comments on the preferred options build upon and should be proposals on the Strategic Road Network and read in conjunction with our comments on the issues and mitigation measures identified if required. options paper submitted to you on 23 March 2006. In order to more readily understand and assess the AAP and in particular The North Smethwick area was subject to a to consider the relationship of the AAP with the rest of the study in 2005 which highlighted the need for District, it would be beneficial if the AAP included a context highway and junction improvements to aid the plan. This should identify the location of the AAP area within movement of traffic to and through the area. the wider District boundary, thus enabling the strategic context These improvements have been taken on for the AAP to be appreciated. board and will be implemented as and when developments come forward. Obviously, there Impact on the SRN will be a requirement for Transport The AAP recognises that junction 1 of the M5 is readily Assessments to be carried out for individual accessible from the AAP area. However, no assessment proposals as and when they come forward to appears to have been carried out in relation to the impact of identify any problems and mitigation measures the proposals put forward in the AAP on this junction, or any required. Additional traffic modelling work is other part of the Strategic Road Network (M5 junction 2 and also being carried out for the emerging West M6 junctions 7, 8&9 may also be affected). In order to be Bromwich Area Action Plan to ascertain the credible and sound the AAP, and the proposals/allocations impact of proposed development on Junction 1 within it, must be derived from a robust evidence base. This and the surrounding road network which will should include information relating to the impact of the also take into account proposed development proposals on the Strategic Road Network. The Agency’s in Smethwick. This work is expected to be previous comments highlighted the need to undertake such an completed later this year. assessment to inform the preferred option. It is unclear whether this has been carried out. If not, then before the AAP I also note your support in the Area Action is progressed, these transportation impacts therefore need to Plan for the promotion of accessibility for all be assessed, mitigation measures proposed (if required) and modes of transport, especially the promotion of mechanisms for the delivery of mitigation established within non-car modes. the AAP. I also note your concern about the Sustainable transport deliverability of sustainable transport provision, The AAP acknowledges the role of transportation issues and for example, bridges across the A457. The the importance of promoting accessibility for all modes of Submission Document will include a strategy transport. Non-car modes now have greater priority in the for acquiring developer contributions covering AAP than was the case at issues and options stage. This is a range of issues which will set out where welcomed by the Agency as an essential part of a sustainable funding is expected and how it relates to strategy. However, the AAP includes no firm proposals for proposed development. By promoting improving or enhancing sustainable transport provision across development alongside and improving linkages the AAP area or at specific locations. For example, the across the canal corridor, the AAP sets out to Windmill Eye section identifies that new crossing facilities or improve pedestrian and cycle accessibility to bridges might be required across the A457, however, there is increased parts of Smethwick and beyond. no indication that the feasibility of this has been tested and Improving the bus network to take account of there is no mechanism identified to secure delivery. If it is these proposed developments will be anticipated that such improvements will be developer funded, discussed further with Centro and bus then this needs to be clearly set out in the AAP. In terms of operators as the need arises. area wide transport initiatives, there is no evidence that baseline sustainability has been audited and opportunities for However, the Council will carry out a full improvement identified and the AAP is again lacking in firm analysis of the area’s transport problems and proposals or delivery mechanisms. The Agency would opportunities to ascertain if an Area Wide encourage the AAP to include an Area Travel Plan, that Travel Plan is appropriate and will consider the outlines the key opportunities for sustainable transportation future infrastructure needs. improvements, suggests a range of anticipated / desired outcomes (including specific infrastructure improvements) and sets out how these will be delivered, including the anticipated role of developer contributions. This Area Travel Plan will then act as a framework, against which individual planning applications can be assessed and developer contributions sought. Contributions to sustainable transport initiatives should be included within the section on planning obligations (paragraph 8.52 - 8.56). .

In summary the Agency is concerned that, as it stands, the AAP has not adequately assessed the transportation impacts and opportunities arising from the preferred options and includes no clear strategy or delivery mechanism for securing transportation improvements. The strategic assessment of transportation issues recommended in our response to the issues and options paper does not appear to have been progressed. The Agency therefore re-iterates its previous advice that such a strategic assessment ought to be undertaken. This should include assessment of the interaction between the local and strategic road network and the wider transportation system (public transport, walking, cycling). The aim should be to identify the scale and nature of improvements that would be required to accommodate the developments and the opportunities to reduce travel demand at source, influence travel behaviour and promote the use of sustainable transport modes. The HA would suggest that this is then developed into a range of specific measures to be included in an Area Travel Plan. The HA would be happy to work in partnership with Sandwell MBC to advise on the form and content of this strategic appraisal.

Government Office For I have a number of comments to make about the document Sites have been allocated within the Area The West Midlands and the approach you have taken. I would remind you that Action Plan to meet the criteria of PPS12, to the Inspector will be assessing the Submission DPD against address the areas where change is required. the nine tests of Soundness, set out in paragraph 4.24 of Where the allocations for existing sites in the PPS12. UDP are thought to still be appropriate, these have been retained. The submission document One of main roles of the GO in commenting on emerging will only show the sites where a change from DPDs is to identify any obvious weaknesses which may make the UDP allocation is envisaged to meet future the documents fundamentally unsound. However, regeneration and where they can be delivered responsibility rests with the local planning authority to ensure within the plan period. that the documents are sound when the reach examination. To assist you with this, I would recommend that you make use Spatial Plan of the LDF Soundness Self-Assessment Toolkit produced by the Planning Advisory Service. I have also framed my It is vital that the Authority work with all the comments around the tests of soundness. regeneration bodies operative within the Smethwick AAP area which is the case for One of my key concerns is the approach this is being taken proposals put forward as part of this Plan. with the identification of sites within the AAP. It appears that a This includes working with Regenco, English number of sites are being carried forward from the existing Partnerships , Advantage West Midlands and UDP without a reassessment of their continued suitability for British Waterways on proposals for North development. It is important that these sites, along with Smethwick Canalside and Soho Park, as well alternatives that have been considered, can clearly be justified as Urban Living for Windmill Lane and the on the basis of a robust and up-to-date evidence base, NHS Trust for Grove Lane. The proposals put underpinned by SA once the document is submitted for forward in the AAP reflect the aspirations of examination. For example, you are proposing to retain UDP the partner agencies and we will continue to allocation EE43 in the Rolfe Street Zone and to allocate sites work with them in order to bring about RS1 and RS2 adjacent to this, however, it is not clear from transformational change supported by a robust your SA that you have appraised any alternatives for site planning framework. EE43. Should your SA demonstrate that the most sustainable use for the site is the same as the current UDP allocation I The proposals for the AAP are in conformity would still expect this site to be reallocated in the AAP with the Community Strategy for the Borough because the AAP will, in part, replace UDP saved policies / and has been prepared with the aims of the allocations. Strategy in mind.

Spatial Plan To show how this plan links with the other I am pleased that you have included references to the other regeneration initiatives in the area. A plan will strategies and regeneration initiatives operating within the be included in the Submission Document. Smethwick area. It is important that you can show how these strategies / initiatives, particularly your Community Strategy, Spatial Vision have influenced the vision / options for the area you have presented and how key elements of such strategies are being I consider that the AAP has set out a clear delivered through the AAP. As I said in my letter of 28 vision (para 7.5) which relates specifically to September 2006, it is important that the emerging AAP brings the local area, and which is supported by six together and integrates policies for the use of land with other clear issues to be addressed (para 7.6) which policies and programmes relevant to the area. In terms of will contribute to the future of the area. The other strategies, I would have expected to see a clear link with timescales for change will be addressed in the the Regional Economic Strategy, notably the Regeneration monitoring and implementation section. Zone, and how this has influenced the options for the AAP. The AAP should demonstrate its relationship with the Conformity surrounding areas. For example, Smethwick High Street presumably serves a catchment beyond the AAP boundary - As this AAP is being prepared in advance of how do the options for development affect the High Street and the Core Strategy and other DPD’s, there subsequently impact on those surrounding areas? Similarly, needs to be a clear linkage with the policies of what is the relationship between the AAP and the wider Black the existing UDP on which to base the Country, for example how does this fit with the corridors allocations of the AAP to provide a clear approach proposed in the RSS Phase 1 revision? planning framework. Although some of these policies will be superseded by the Core It would be helpful if you could include a map / context plan Strategy and other DPD’s, until these are in which shows the extent of coverage of the different initiatives / place, it is considered that some reference to strategies in relation to the area and ‘zones’ covered by the these policies is required. Your previous letter AAP. on the Issues and Options (28th September 2006) seems to contradict this statement Spatial Vision where you say in the ‘General comments’ The AAP should be setting out the spatial vision and section..”In particular, you need to ensure that objectives for the area covered by the Plan. I would expect the existing UDP provides adequate policy the vision for Smethwick to be more locally distinctive and to coverage to link to this document” set out a clear timeframe by which the changes will be achieved. This relates to the need to set out a clear time Flexibility period which the document will cover. It would also be helpful if the document could include a plan which will show the It is considered that the residential allocations distribution of land uses and other key spatial elements shown in the AAP has identified an appropriate showing what the area will look like in the future. capacity for housing on each of the sites which would deliver appropriate, good quality Conformity housing to meet the needs and demands of There should be a clear chain of conformity with the the area. A guideline figure for capacity on Development Plan. I am concerned about the extent to which each site has been calculated although you have relied upon links with the UDP since this document detailed applications will determine the exact is to be superseded by your Core Strategy and other DPDs. I numbers and will need to be assessed against would expect you to set out a clear link to the RSS which the Authority’s policies on urban design, provides the framework for producing this AAP in advance of intensification and providing sustainable, the Joint Core Strategy. The approach you are suggesting in quality living environments. paragraph 3.6 assumes the UDP will continue to be in place It is probably unlikely that should the Phase 2 and used to determine planning applications in the area which revision of the RSS demand higher housing may not be the case, given that the Secretary of State has yet figures, they could be accommodated on these to determine which UDP policies will be saved for a longer sites, but we would need to look at other ways period of time. I would remind you that it is unnecessary to of accommodating the requirement. This is a repeat existing policies in the document. These can be cross- view also shared by the West Midlands referenced as necessary. Regional Assembly.

Flexibility Monitoring and Implementation One of the issues you will need to consider in preparing the submission document for the Smethwick AAP is whether your This section has been amended to provide plan is sufficiently flexible to deal with changing further information on how the various circumstances. In the case of this AAP, both the Phase 1 and schemes will be delivered, providing 2 RSS revisions may have implications for what happens in approximate timescales and who is expected Smethwick. For example, the Phase 2 revision is expected to to deliver them. result in higher housing figures for the Black Country - this may have implications for the amount of housing allocated to Procedural issues each of the sites in the AAP. The Authority has requested that a Strategic Monitoring and Implementation Flood Risk Assessment be undertaken, the As it is currently presented, I do not consider this section of draft of which has recently been forwarded to the document provides enough information about how the us. Additional work has also been plan will be delivered. The LDF system places considerable commissioned to inform the Smethwick AAP emphasis on the delivery of proposals rather than simply the regarding the potential for flooding on the allocation of areas for particular forms of development. Test allocated sites. This information will be of Soundness Viii is whether there are clear mechanisms for incorporated into the Submission Document. implementation and monitoring. It is important therefore that the development proposed in the AAP is brought forward in Further information is currently being sought accordance with a specified programme. The Submission on whether there is a need to undertake an DPD will need to set out in detail how each element of the Appropriate Assessment and clarification with proposals will be implemented, by which organisation and be requested from Natural England in due when. It is important that this also reflects the role of the course. wider strategic partnership working and the investment programmes of stakeholders. In terms of monitoring, I would I hope that the amendments made are have expected the Preferred Options document to include sufficient for you to consider the document proposed targets and indicators for consultation. It is sound but I will ensure that you have sight of a essential that these are included at submission stage. copy of the Submission Document prior to it being sent to the Secretary of State. Procedural Issues You should be aware that you will need to have met the requirements for both a Strategic Flood Risk Assessment and an Appropriate Assessment of this plan. I have raised a number of issues in this letter which I hope will be helpful to you in preparing the Submission DPD. Should you wish to discuss any of these matters in more detail, I would be happy to meet with you if this would be helpful. I would also strongly encourage you to send a draft of your Submission document to the GOWM before you formally submit it to the Secretary of State and, ideally, before you take this through your own decision-making processes.

Travel West Midlands Thank you for including Travel West Midlands in the Preferred I can confirm that the Area Action Plan for Options Consultation for the Smethwick Action Plan - we very Smethwick is scheduled to be adopted in much appreciate the opportunity to contribute at an early February 2009, and it has been set to have a stage to the spatial and transportation planning process, as 10 year timeframe up to the year 2020. With this is crucial to the provision of long-term sustainable regards the responsibility for transportation improvements to public transport. We have not yet reviewed issues, I can confirm that this lies with the the Preferred Options document in full, so please accept our Local Highways Authority of Sandwell MBC, apologies that we have not yet taken advantage of the who liase with other divisions within the documentation you have provided, and for any Council, including the Planning and misunderstandings on our part we might thus have. Transportation Planning sections.

We have set out below our key points that we would like you I note your comments regarding the to consider in taking the AAP forward. We would be happy to sustainability agenda and access to a range of expand on this and suggest that a useful way to achieve this services and the need for services and would be through a meeting with you and/or your Planning facilities to be located in established centres. I Policy colleagues, and also perhaps representatives from your also acknowledge your support for the siting of Transportation Planning team. the new hospital and note your willingness to discuss your involvement in the development We are very keen to develop our bus services to meet the planning process. The housing sites have emerging needs of Smethwick, and to ensure that the been considered regarding their proximity to development patterns and infrastructure can support this. existing public transport and the densities calculated accordingly. However, there may (i) Generic Points Planning Timeframe: be a need to liase with Travel WM in the future We have not been able to ascertain easily from the regarding re-routing or new services to meet documentation provided what the timeframe of the AAP is, i.e. the demands of the new developments. when it would be adopted and to what time horizon it is working; please advise. I have also noted your other comments regarding an integrated Bus Showcase Organisational Responsibilities: We believe that the AAP corridor route, the consideration of a by-pass could be improved through addition of an organisation chart for Cranford Street and Heath Street and the indicating which departments within Sandwell MBC and which need for good quality urban design which external organisations are responsible for delivering which consider safety issues. elements of the plan; our interest lays in particular with transportation responsibilities.

(ii) Spatial Strategy We are very supportive of the sustainability agenda, which should cover environmental issues [both global ecology and local environment], economic vitality and social cohesion. We believe that this can be better achieved through a spatial distribution of living, working, education, shopping, health and leisure that means that most, i.e. 95%+, people can access their core life needs within around five miles of their home; and with mixed-use centres that permit multi-purpose linked trips with one main journey and walk connections between different activities. No amount of 'retro-fitted' environmental, economic, social or transport policies or projects will be able to compensate for a spatial development pattern that is not conducive to sustainability, and therefore we believe that this issue over-arches all others.

(iii) Local Centre Development We support the concentration of traditional local-centre type activities - e.g. shopping, adult education, doctor’s surgeries, and libraries - in established centres. We believe that an aim of the AAP must be to strengthen established local centres and to create an environment in them that is safe and pleasant and that decisively prioritises walking, cycling, public transport and local servicing over private car access and through traffic.

(iv) Sandwell New Hospital We support the choice of a site with high public transport accessibility and potential for further improvement to bus services. We believe that the AAP should establish the primacy of non-car modes for staff and visitor travel. With imaginative and thorough planning and a willingness on all parties to innovate, it will be possible to set and achieve ambitious modal split targets for the new hospital. We are keen to participate in a travel planning partnership for the hospital and believe that this must be established very early in the development planning process.

(v) Residential Development We support a mixed pattern of residential development, i.e. bringing together housing of different tenures, sizes, types and affordability into close proximity. This provides for good social integration and also a more effective and efficient transportation system. We believe that the higher residential densities should be allocated to sites close to main public transport services, with lower density housing allocated to sites further away.

(vi) Transportation Policies and Proposals In the area overview we consider that the importance of bus services is under-represented. Bus services carry roundly 90% of public transport journeys in the West Midlands metropolitan area and will continue to carry 80% or more for the next 15 years or so even with expansion of heavy and light rail services. The AAP should indicate the potential for a network of Bus Showcase core corridors and connecting spurs to serve Smethwick area and should establish a policy commitment to develop and sustain such a network that is integrated with land use development. In particular, we would like to see a policy commitment on the part of Sandwell MBC to the delivery of fully-fledged Bus Showcase standards in the Birmingham-Smethwick-Oldbury-Dudley and Birmingham- Cape Hill-Bearwood corridors. We have already invested in new vehicles for routes 82 and 87 and would be happy to make further improvements as part of a committed bus partnership with local authorities. We propose that Sandwell MBC jointly with Birmingham CC should pursue a scheme to develop a Winson Green by-pass along the alignment of Cranford Street and Heath Street, to remove through traffic from the local centre along the Dudley Road. This would then permit Dudley Road to be redesignated as a bus and local access route, with substantial benefits for bus journey times and reliability, pedestrian movement and safety, and the local environment for shoppers and residents. While this would be a bold move, we believe that without it the desired step- change in the quality of bus services will be hard to achieve.

(vii) Urban Design We believe that the most successful town centres are those that have retained a substantial element of their natural and built heritage while permitting intensification of activity where this can be achieved sensitively. While this is outside our immediate remit as a travel services provider, it will clearly impact on the overall success of Smethwick and thus the demand for and effectiveness of the local public transport network. We believe that public safety and security must be developed and designed in as an integral part of urban design. With the benefit of hindsight, it seems that historic urban development patterns seemed to provide for this, whereas because this 'hidden capability' was not recognised at the time some of the planned urban development of the 60s/70s/80s did not provide well for personal security. We believe that this is a core issue for the success of urban areas in the whole and for public transport in particular. Sport England 1. The vision from the LSP to provide excellent health and The provision of sports facilities for the area is access to leisure and cultural opportunities is strongly being looked at with reference to the Playing welcomed (par 6.18). This needs to be clearly borne out Pitch Strategy and Green Spaces Strategy. however in the AAP which should provide the most detailed The results of which will be incorporated within and clear statement on what is required in a local area a reviewed AAP. There are indoor facilities through new development. Indeed this is taken up in par. 7.5 located within 1km of this area to meet some and bullet 5 of 7.6. However there are not clear proposals demand. However, when we have an up-to- and no clear linkages made to the new playing pitch strategy, date study of indoor sports facilities, this the need for indoor sports facilities or the opportunities for provision can be reviewed and appropriate providing sports facilities through provision of new/improved action taken. school proposals (with the exception of general open space). Encouragement will be given to the sharing of 2. Sandwell MBC has commenced (and is nearing school facilities, and developer contributions to completion of) a Playing Pitch Strategy which, along with the sporting provision will be requested where Green Spaces Strategy, should inform protection/provision of appropriate. This will be reflected in the playing fields as part of sports provision associated with new revised Area Action Plan, which will be sent to development. This should be referred to in par 8.22. (speak you later this year for further consultation. to David Brown from SMBC).

3. 8.33 refers to education and whilst it is right that major indoor sports facilities should be provided in town centres schools with sports halls and playing fields can be an important community based resource for sport if they are designed, planned and managed with community use in mind. The concept of the extended school should be encouraged as a means of providing social infrastructure (not only for sport). The links between health (8.35-6) and leisure (8.37-43) are not really evident. Clearly the more physically active people are, the less ill they become and so improves health and reduces demand for doctors etc. The AAP should seek to maximise the opportunities for physical activity through design (see Active Design guidance on our website) and provision of the right level of sports and recreation facilities/land.

8.38 does not make it clear, because it has not been assessed when it should have been, what sport and recreation facilities are needed to be delivered to ensure this element of social infrastructure is delivered as part of the AAP.

4. The proposals could lead to the construction of over 1000 dwellings and along with the community facilities referred to in the document there are also indoor sports facilities which do not seem to have been properly considered. As you may know it is a Government aim to increase physical activity levels to improve community health. Base line data has now been used to establish physical activity levels for the audit commission and CPA indicators through the Active People Survey. The West Midlands were the most inactive region and Sandwell the most inactive local authority within that region.

There is a serious health and social issue which planning policy (as set out in PPS1) needs to do it’s part to address. This means protecting existing open space, sports and recreation facilities and providing new facilities to meet the needs through new development. Ideally Sandwell would have also completed their indoor sports strategy to inform just how much provision is currently provided, whether it has the capacity to absorb the new demand or whether new facilities need to be provided. This study (Black Country Sports Strategy) has not yet been completed but from my knowledge of Sandwell swimming provision is very low and I would guess that provision is generally not adequate to meet current demand.

On this basis the AAP needs to make it clear that indoor sports provision needs to be delivered through S106 contributions. Pars 8.52 onwards make no reference to sports facilities.

5. To help this process Sport England have developed the Sports Facility Calculator, which based on comprehensive research, calculates the demand for swimming pools, sports halls and indoor bowls facilities based on the level of new population. This can be run for each site or for the action area as a whole. I would recommend the latter as it enables a more strategic approach to provision and the pooling of resources to provide facilities which are generally expensive. Provision could include upgrading existing facilities to increase capacity (e.g. making school provision suitable for public use) or contributing to providing new facilities. You can access this yourself on our website and put what population figures are correct depending on occupancy levels (please see response to Tipton AAP for example).

Given the scale of housing in Smethwick is similar to Tipton it is estimated that the additional housing would give rise to demand for ½ lane of pool space, almost one badminton court and 0.15 bowling rinks at a total cost of >£700,000. In the absence of a finalised indoor sports strategy the AAP should seek both to open up schools for extended use by the community and to invest the above amount into sport and recreation in the area through planning obligations. CENTRO/WMPTE Centro-WMPTA has the following comments to make: I have noted your comments regarding the lack of reference to the Metro line which runs to the Centro-WMPTA broadly supports the aims and objectives of north of the AAP area and which will provide a this document, and notes that comments on the Issues and more sustainable mode of transport for those Options paper appear to have been taken into account. It is working or living in the area. The reviewed disappointing that no reference is made to Metro within AAP will be amended to reflect the importance chapters 8.15 to 8.20. Whilst Metro Line 1 does not actually of this mode of transport, especially in relation run through the area covered by the Area Action Plan it has a to the proposed development. major impact on accessibility to and from the Plan area. As there are major developments for residential, employment and I have also noted your comments regarding leisure uses proposed within the Plan area, these will the need for developer contributions should inevitably attract people into the area, and it is hoped that they there be a need for new stop locations or would be encouraged to use more sustainable means of travel public transport infrastructure arising from new into the area than the private car. Also, if, as part of any developments. policies and/or proposals contained within the Area Action Plan, any public transport infrastructure is proposed to be relocated, shelter upgrades would be welcomed. However, it should be noted that new stop locations are subject to statutory procedures and consultations, and approval by Centro-WMPT A, the operators and the highway authority, and in addition, all relocation costs must be borne by the developer. Inland Waterways IWA welcomes the Council’s initiative to review the uses of I note your comments regarding the Association the North Canalside and Windmill Lane area of Smethwick importance of the canals for some of the draw up a plan that looks at potential for transportation allocated sites. In particular, it is proposed to change and future development opportunities. It considers include more detail for site GL1 in the form of a that this is essential for the future of such an important Development Framework which will encourage historical area of the country with its industrial heritage going the enhancement of the existing canal and the back to the industrial revolution as well as the well being of its possibility of opening it up further to include residents, visitors and businesses (industrial and commercial). within future development as a focal point. There will also be more detailed work IWA primary concerns therefore relate to the future of the undertaken on bringing forward appropriate canals, those that use them and the attractions that are development for Soho Foundry and the centred on them, its response will therefore reflect this surrounding area. I note your comments on interest. As only the Brindley II/Rolf Street, Soho Park and the omission of reference to the Cottages and Grove Lane zones contain canals and we will not be Murdock House which will be rectified in the commenting in respect of the Windmill Eye area. Submission Document. I also note your recommendation to allocate Soho Foundry on IWA is please to note that most of it comments made as part a temporary basis until a fuller report is of the issues and options consultation have been included in prepared. However, it is considered that the the preferred options report, there are however some allocation as it stands will provide a range of omissions that cause us concern. Looking at the options plan appropriate uses for future consideration. our specific comments are:- 5.5 We note and welcome the Council’s initiative to separately There are no proposals within the Area Action look at Soho Foundry. It is unclear as to the exact area this Plan to promote movement of freight by canal study will take and, as this includes the site of the original at this time. However, there may be scope to Brindley Canal that resulted in it being built IWA wishes to look at this issue in the future. become involved with this study. Equally important in historical terms are the cottages; Murdock’s House and the The Area Action Plan proposals are reliant on site of the worlds first gas works located behind the foundry good linkages across the canal and road that is currently the site of a metal processing plant. network to ensure sustainable communities are created. It is vital, therefore that 6.8 Reference needs to be made to the Spatial Strategy consideration is given to providing a bridge to Review currently taking place. link Brindley II and sites north of the canal to those on Rolfe Street, and to provide further 6.27 There is also a requirement of the WMLTP to look at safe linkages to areas in the south. As the using the canal network for moving freight. With regards to canal network at Brindley II/Rolfe Street is a Sandwell, because the canal is central within the study area, Conservation Area, any bridge development Sandwell has to be mindful of the plan when considering will need to pay due regard to this and be policy within this area. There is no mention of this requirement sympathetic in design and materials although a nor, therefore, that it has been considered. Will it be more modern design could equally be suitable. considered? These details will need to be the subject of further work, possibly as part of a planning 8.15 to 8.20 Again there is no mention of the WMPLT to move application, and no doubt you will be consulted freight by water (see comments re 6.27 above). at the appropriate time.

8.26 Again we welcome the Council’s initiative to separately I have also noted your comments regarding look at Soho Foundry but again there is no indication of the the co-ordination of any heritage trail with exact area that will be covered by this study (see comment re adjoining authorities and the need to promote 5.5 above). locally listed buildings onto a national list.

8.29 Any heritage trail needs to be co-ordinated with adjacent boroughs because potential users are not interested in political boundaries. There is no indication that Sandwell intends to do this and, in this particular case, work with Birmingham.

8.30 Noted and welcome retention and protection policy of locally listed buildings. However we are concerned that there is no commitment to get these upgraded and put on the national list.

8.50 We note the proposals to consider the possibility of building a new bridge. Noting the historic landscape of Galton Valley we hope that, if it has to be built (& we hope alternatives can be found that won’t affect this), it will be of a sympathetic design and will not be modern in looks and designed by architects who produce structures that are deliberately individualistic and iconic.

Rolf Street RS1 - we support the proposed allocation, albeit with reference to the relevant comments that we have made above, but doubt that the canal would bring much top-up business into the area because the main route used is in a deep cutting and Smethwick is more or less inaccessible from it. Perhaps the report should consider how accessibility could be improved.

Rolf Street RS2 - we support the proposed allocation, albeit with reference to the relevant comments that we have made above.

Grove Lane GL1 - we support the proposed allocation, albeit with reference to the relevant comments that we have made above, however we are concerned that there is no reference to the canal that runs through most of the site and how it can be (& re-excavated for the short length where it has been filled in) to improve the area as part of any development that may be promoted.

Grove Lane GL2 - we support the proposed allocation, albeit with reference to the relevant comments that we have made above, and welcome the proposal to incorporate the canal within development being promoted.

Soho park SP1 - we have no comment to make because it does not, nor did not, have any canal within it.

Soho Park SP2 - we have no comment to make because it does not, nor did not, have any canal running through it within the odd arm from the main canal may have just gone into it.

Soho Park SP3 - Historically this is the most important site within the plan, and this is recognised by the Council’s short- term proposal to make Soho Foundry weathertight. However there are other equally important historic sites within the zoned area and IWA considers that these (the tied cottages, Murdock’s House, the route of the former Brindley Birmingham Canal and, albeit just outside the zone, the site of the worlds first gas works) should also be included within the study. Furthermore IWA believes that, whilst it is happening with the industrial zoning and a temporary basis, no final decision should be until this report is delivered and the recommendations agreed. IWA is surprised, especially in view of the ‘Blue Plaque’ on the house; there is no mention of the tied cottages and Murdock’s House anywhere in the analysis. IWA would welcome the opportunity to comment on the final Submissions Document once it has been produced and in the meantime would like to thank you for consulting the Association. Miss Anne Godridge Having moved into the North West of Birmingham from the I note your support for the retention of Black Friends of Black Patch South it was obvious to me there was a shortage of green Patch Park to provide accessible open space Park spaces and to find Black Patch park was a blessing especially for the residents of this area (Proposal SP1). I as the local children asked me to take them there. We hope can confirm that following consultation, the that it can be regenerated and kept as a green space for comments received are being used to review future generations. We need all our green areas to enjoy and the AAP which will be submitted to the relax in to give us the quality of life and health that people Secretary of State later this year. work for and deserve. Please! Please! Listen to what the people want and ask for.

Friends Of Black Patch I am a friend of Black Patch Park and whole-heartedly support I note your support for the retention of Black Park the vision for the park and Merry Hill allotments as proposed Patch Park to provide accessible open space by the Government. I have lived in the area my whole life and for the residents of this area (Proposal SP1). I fondly recall my early teens when after school we all descend can confirm that following consultation, the on the ‘Patch’ to enjoy the swings, slides, see-saws and comments received are being used to review round-a-bouts etc. The lovely park keeps house and the AAP which will be submitted to the flowerbeds. Middle teens when we supported and encouraged Secretary of State later this year. the local works football teams and late teens dating a fellow who lived with his parents in one of the prefabs frontline I also acknowledge the Vision for the park and Perrott Street. Now, in my seventieth year, I walk the dog allotments which has been prepared by the around the ‘Patch’ area twice a day stopping to talk to other Friends group which will be taken into dog walkers and people of all ages and races having their consideration in any future improvement daily exercise one way or the other. So the ‘Patch’ is very scheme. dear to my heart and I am sure with the right sort of cash, vision and development it can be restored to its former glory. I would also stress we must try and maintain the community activities etc. Thank you for considering the preferred option of maintaining this land for allocation back to open space. RegenCo Rolfe Street – RS1 North Smethwick Canalside General support for the allocations within the Regenco supports the proposals as the land use allocations Plan is noted. accord with the emerging Planning Framework. It has been agreed that the North Smethwick Canalside Steering Group The AAP will be amended to make reference will also draft a response on the Preferred Options for Rolfe to the wider area covered by the North Street. Smethwick Canalside Steering Group, although it is not within the AAP boundary, it is The Steering Group has prepared a planning framework for relevant to the wider regeneration of the area. the area, and it is intended that this will form the Supplementary Planning Document to enable early delivery of The Bridge Street Site was not included as a North Smethwick Canalside. The proposals cover Brindley potential development site as it was felt that Village Ii and Rolfe Street and need to be read in conjunction many of the allocation sites, due to developer with the AAP (as there is no reference to Brindley Village II interest and regeneration initiatives already in proposals or a plan showing the boundary of the intervention place, were deliverable within the timescale of area). Regenco propose to develop the proposals in parallel the plan period, a requirement of the new with the Area Action Plan and would be keen to support any planning system. The redevelopment of the future public consultation activity in parallel with the Area Bridge Street Industrial Estate would be more Action Plan process. long term and at present contributes to the provision of employment land required in this The North Smethwick Canalside intervention area has been particular part of the Borough. enlarged in the light of English Partnership’s involvement in the HMRA. The housing area to the north of Lewisham Road The Windmill Eye area will need to be has been included for possible investment and/or reviewed in respect of information acquired redevelopment. Although this is outside the Action area Plan from the Housing Product Study and Housing boundary I would suggest there is reference to it in the text. Needs and Demands Survey. More detailed proposals will be prepared at a later stage in Rabone Lane Preferred Option RS2 the process, probably by way of The residential allocation on the south side of the canal and Supplementary Planning Document, which will the North Smethwick Canalside proposals could provide the set out the phased redevelopment programme stimulus for further mixed-use redevelopment at Rabone of new build residential and associated Lane, north of the canalside. Residential development is infrastructure. proposed on the Island Site between the Birmingham Canal and the Engine Arm. This site is located on the west side of The extension of the mixed use allocation to Bridge Street North and will face on to the existing Bridge include Alma Street will not be made as this Street Industrial Estate. The Smethwick Town Plan proposed provides small units to cater for the smaller retaining part of the newer Rabone Lane Industrial Estate and industrial uses which are in demand in this part redeveloping land to the west for residential use. of the Borough.

Following intervention in key sites in North Smethwick there I can confirm that future office development could be market interest on the north side of Rabone Lane for should be directed towards the main town redevelopment for mixed-use and it is suggested that the centre of West Bromwich. Therefore, the allocation should be amended to reflect this. allocation for offices within site SP2 is to complement the industrial (B1) provision as Windmill Eye ancillary development rather than large scale Windmill Lane WE1 stand alone development. This will be clarified Windmill Eye has been included in Urban Living’s programme in the revised text of the Submission though lies outside Regenco’s intervention area. Urban Living Document. investment will co-ordinate a wider programme of physical improvements of up to 1,000 homes. The allocations within the Soho Park area do not include any residential use given the lack It is considered hat there may be additional housing and of services and facilities to support such a commercial requirements which impact on Windmill Lane limited amount of housing and the existing arising from the proposed hospital development at Grove uses and surrounding environment. Any Lane. It is estimated that the hospital site will require 12ha residential scheme would need to be with the remaining land 6.7 ha being allocation for residential comprehensive and have in place, appropriate and commercial uses. transport and social infrastructure as part of the development. It is not considered that this The proposed allocation of 200 dwellings is likely to require can be achieved successfully within the plan around 3.5ha (based on density o say 60 units/ha) which will period although it may be considered leave around 3.5ha for B1 uses. It is considered that the appropriate in the future should the existing Windmill Lane area has the potential to cater for additional surrounding uses relocate. housing demand/need and additional associated ancillary B1 health related industrial uses. The B1 uses could be allocated With regards the adjoining uses of metal on the eastern edge of the Windmill Lane area closest to the recycling, existing policy promotes the siting of hospital site. these uses within industrial areas. However, the alteration of allocations to that of Industrial It is proposed that the allocation be amended to include mixed (B1) in Soho Park will ensure that there will be use on the eastern edge. This would help to improve the no increase of these uses in this area which perception of Windmill Eye with new quality, high density, will aid the transformation in the environmental mixed use development and capitalise on its strategic position quality and hopefully promote future in relation to Smethwick and Cape Hill. investment. Future applications will be subject to existing policy on waste Grove Lane – GL1 management facilities which will control their The new hospital will provide the stimulus to regenerate the design and impact on the neighbouring area and Regenco supports the allocation. environment.

GL2 It is suggested that the mixed use allocation be extended westwards to include Alma Street and Willetts Close. The area currently contains a number of motor repair workshops. \it is considered these uses will be incompatible with the proposed residential and B1 uses. The site will act as an important frontage/gateway into the Grove Lane area with access possible from the roundabout at the junction of Cranford Street/Soho Way and Grove Lane.

Soho Park Regenco has commissioned King Sturge to undertake an Options Appraisal for Soho Park. This is currently at draft stage, however the study indicates that the existing scrap yards and recycling activities severely blight the area. The suggested option is to rationalise such uses around Anne st close to the railway line, as it is unlikely that funding will be available to relocate them. In addition it is proposed to capitalise on the existing environmental assets of the Black Patch Park, the allotments and the canal.

Preferred Options SP1 Black Patch Park Given the dense urban nature of the area the RegenCo supports the proposal to retain Black Patch Park as a catalyst towards improving environmental quality. The possibility of linking this space with the canalside through redevelopment of the Soho Foundry, opening up the area could be explored.

Preferred Option SP2 – Foundry Lane RegenCo supports the B1 allocation for light industrial uses but not offices, as these hold be located in the West Bromwich, the key strategic centre. King Sturge’s report on Soho Park indicates no market demand for offices due to the relatively isolated location of the site, although there was interest for hybrid units and managed workspace and we would suggest amending the text to state this.

Preferred Option SP3 – Soho Foundry RegenCo supports the reuse of Soho Foundry for a mix of uses, however suggest there should be some flexibility with limited residential development based around the canalside, say around 50 units.

In the light of the RegenCo proposals for the area I would suggest stronger policies to control the expansion of existing and development of new metal recycling uses. In addition more detailed criteria for controlling such uses need to be defined including appropriate noise attenuation measures, screening and landscaping and traffic impact studies demonstrating no adverse impact.

Design Quality and Housing Mix I would suggest that there is reference to i8mproving design quality as a stimulus to regeneration the area and securing the #step change’ This should refer to new housing, commercial and industrial development, as the area requires significant improvements to change perceptions, if it is to attract further investment. There are no aspirations described for the area particularly, the broad housing mix required to meet housing need and the emerging demand and a brief summary of Urban Living’s strategy for the area would be useful. RegenCo I have been asked to respond to the Smethwick Area Action General support for the allocations within the Plan: Preferred Options report on behalf of the North Plan is noted. Smethwick Canalside Steering Group. The AAP will be amended to make reference The steering Group is responsible for the redevelopment of to the wider area covered by the North the North Smethwick Canalside area (see attached plan). Smethwick Canalside Steering Group, Partners on the Steering Group comprise English although it is not within the AAP boundary, it is Partnerships (Chair), Advantage West Midlands, Sandwell relevant to the wider regeneration of the area. Council, British Waterways, Urban Living (Birmingham/Sandwell Housing Market Renewal Pathfinder) Regenco and PXP (the Joint Venture Partnership between Advantage West Midlands and the Langtree Group).

The Steering group welcomes and supports the broad strategy and proposals outlined in the preferred options report.

Rolfe Street Preferred Options RS 1- North Smethwick Canalside The broad land use allocations accord with the emerging Planning Framework prepared by Atkins for the Steering Group. It is proposed that once detailed proposals are prepared as part of the Planning Framework, the report will form the Supplementary Planning Document for the area. The intervention area has been change in the light of EP’s involvement in the Urban Living HMRA. The housing area to the north of Lewisham Rd has been included in the NSC boundary is outside the boundary of the Area Action Plan however would suggest that it should be mentioned in the text. Councillor Mrs Sybil I am very pleased that Sandwell Council has listened to the I note your support for the retention of Black Spence residents of Black Patch Park who had campaigned Patch Park to provide accessible open space vigorously to save the leisure facilities, so everyone can enjoy for the residents of this area (Proposal SP1). I such. We are living in a time as this when we need more and can confirm that following consultation, the more facilities, especially for health sake. This facility will no comments received are being used to review doubt be used by all as accustomed. We the Soho ward the AAP which will be submitted to the Councillors are fully behind the Campaigners to save the park. Secretary of State later this year.

Appendix 18 – Report to Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport 19th September 2007

Agenda Item X

Sandwell Metropolitan Borough Council

Report to the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport

19th September 2007

Smethwick Area Action Plan - Submission Document

1. Summary Statement

1.16 The Local Development Scheme (LDS) for Sandwell was published in June 2005 with a recent revision taking place in 2007. Contained within the LDS is the Smethwick Area Action Plan (AAP), concentrating on the regeneration of an area at North Smethwick Canalside and Windmill Lane. Consultation began on the AAP during 2006 with the publication of an Issues and Options Paper in May with responses requested by the end of September 2006.

1.17 The results of consultation on the Issues and Options fed into the preparation of a Preferred Options Document which was consulted upon during March and April 2007. This document was distributed to statutory and non-statutory consultees and a presentation was made to Smethwick Town Committee on the preferred options for specific sites which would contribute to the regeneration of this area. Consideration of the representations resulted in the preparation of the Submission Document which will be submitted to the Secretary of State in October 2007.

1.18 The aims of the Area Action Plan are;

• Encouraging the provision of a range of new, high quality homes to meet local and future needs, including affordable housing. • Identifying new employment sites or appropriate relocation sites which will aid local employment opportunities. • Evaluate, protect and enhance existing open spaces and green spaces and provide new facilities where there is an identified need. • Improving accessibility for all modes of transport through and within the plan area. • Ensuring that the social infrastructure, such as education, health and community facilities, is appropriate to serve the existing and proposed communities within the plan area. • Protecting and enhancing the heritage assets of the Smethwick Area.

1.19 This Document has been prepared in line with National, Regional and Local Planning Policy and within the Regulations set out by Central Government. It has also considered a range of issues which need to be factored into the proposals including the need for good quality housing, retention of appropriate employment sites or appropriate relocation sites, provision of schools, health and community facilities, the need for open space, good transport links and the retention and enhancement of the historic environment of the North Smethwick Area.

1.20 There has been considerable partnership working with the various partner agencies in bringing forward the proposals of this Area Action Plan. In particular, working groups have been established to deal with the regeneration issues facing North Smethwick Canalside and Soho Park. In addition to this, the Council has worked alongside the Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust in identifying an appropriate site within the borough to locate a new acute hospital facility as part of their Towards 2010 agenda.

1.21 The main proposals brought forward by the policies within the Area Action Plan are to regenerate sites at North Smethwick Canalside for residential mixed use development which will open up links across the canal network. It has also helped to identify a location for the new hospital within a wider regeneration scheme at Grove Lane and propose housing development at sites off Cranford Street which will remove a scrapyard as well as bring into more beneficial use, land which is currently vacant. The proposals for Soho Park include the reallocation of land back into open space use as well as changing the future land use of sites adjoining Soho Foundry to B1 use which will transform the environmental quality of the area in order to attract further investment.

1.22 Allocations within the Windmill Eye area will generally be carried forward from the Adopted Unitary Development Plan for predominantly residential uses. However, it is recognised that there is a need to develop a phased development framework in order to bring forward new sites within this area and to accommodate residents displaced through clearance programmes by Housing and the Birmingham/Sandwell Pathfinder projects. A Housing Product Study is currently being carried out on this area which will inform a preferred strategy for phased intervention measures. This area will be subject to further work for the various character areas which will be prepared as Supplementary Planning Documents following on from the adoption of the Area Action Plan.

1.23 On submission to the Secretary of State, there is a further six-week consultation period which will end on 12th December 2007 prior to the AAP going to a formal Examination an Independent Inspector.

Further details are attached for your information

2. Recommendation

2.5 That Cabinet recommend Council to:-

(a) approve the Smethwick Area Action Plan Submission Document and the final Sustainability Appraisal Report for submission to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government on 31st October 2007;

(b) authorise the Director of Planning and Transportation, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport, to agree any final changes to the Smethwick Area Action Plan Submission Document and the final Sustainability Appraisal Report prior to their submission to the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.

(1) the recommendation(s) above is/are approved.

(6) the recommendation(s) above is/are approved as now amended.

(7) the recommendations above are not approved.

______Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Transport

Date ..19th September 2007......

Robert A Lee Director of Planning and Transportation

Contact Officer Hayley Insley Planning Policy Section 0121 569 4254

Smethwick Area Action Plan - Submission Document

3. Strategic Resource Implications

3.1 Production of the Submission Document will be carried out within the identified resources of the Council.

4. Legal and Statutory Implications

4.5 The Submission Document has been prepared in line with The Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 and the Local Development Framework (LDF), which is, in effect, a portfolio of the local development documents which will comprise the spatial planning strategy for the area. The Act is accompanied by The Town and Country Planning (Local Development) (England) Regulations 2004, and the Town and Country Planning (Transitional Arrangements) Regulations 2004. The new system came into effect in September 2004.

4.6 The Smethwick Area Action Plan is included in Sandwell’s approved Local Development Scheme (LDS) which has recently been revised and approved by Government Office. The LDS sets a target for a Submission Document to be prepared by October 2007.

4.3 Consultation on the AAP will be carried out in conformity with the Adopted Statement of Community Involvement. The Submission Document will be submitted to the Secretary of State on 31st October 2007 and be distributed to local groups and businesses, and a range of other organisations (including ’statutory’ consultees)

5. Implications for the Council’s Corporate Priorities

6 Background Details

6.1 Further information is contained in the attached Appendices 1 and 2. Appendix 1 is the Submission Document. Appendix 2 is the Sustainability Appraisal Report. Appendix 3, the Statement on Consultation is attached for information.

Source Documents

Sandwell Local Development Scheme Submission Statement of Community Involvement