RESIDENTS in Kinver are being urged to protect the green belt by having their say on proposed future housing developments in the village.

South Staffordshire District Council’s Local Plan opened for public consultation on November 1, which outlines preferred sites for housing development across the district.

The plan includes three sites in Kinver at White Hill, Hyde Lane and Dunsley Drive, which could see the development of 164 houses.

Campaign group Save Kinver Greenbelt, who are fighting against housing development on Kinver’s greenbelt, have urged residents to have their say before the consultation closes at 5pm on December 13.

Fiona Holloway of Save Kinver Greenbelt, said: “Now is the time for local people to make their voices heard. 164 houses are proposed in the Plan, but in truth this is the thin end of the wedge and once permission is granted, more could follow.

“There are many arguments against these developments, not least the impact on infrastructure and medical facilities within the village, plus of course encroachment into the precious natural environment of Kinver Edge. We maintain that there are other, more suitable, sites close to Kinver including brownfield sites within the Black Country, that should be considered as viable alternatives.”

The group will be holding sessions to help residents understand the plan and how they can lodge objections.

These will take place between 11am and 2pm at the Kinver Community Association café on Marsh Playing Fields, on Saturday November 13 and Saturday December 4.

A stall is also planned for Kinver Christmas Market, taking place from 9am to 2pm on Saturday November 27 in the High Street.

Fiona added: “Come and see us. We need you to join the fight and register your objections. It’s not too late to make a difference and stop the destruction of our green environment.”