A PLAN to extend a block of flats in Stourbridge has sparked “uproar” from wildlife-loving neighbours worried about badgers living on the proposed development site.
A plan has been submitted by Seedhouse Ventures Ltd to extend Hanbury Court in College Road to add nine extra two-bedroom homes to the existing block of nine flats.
The proposal to build three three-storey extensions also includes the demolition of 10 existing garages, off Hanbury Hill, and provision of 20 parking spaces.
A raft of objections, however, have been submitted to Dudley Council planners citing concerns that the proposed development would overlook existing homes, exacerbate parking and traffic problems and adversely alter Stourbridge’s skyline.
Residents have also raised fears about the impact the development would have on wildlife – particularly the badgers that inhabit the site.
Mandy Hobbis, of Park Street, said: “People on neighbouring streets have to park on Hanbury Hill as they have no driveways and there just is not the room for people's cars. This new development will add to that already tragic situation.
“My concern however is the animals that live there.
“I am extremely worried for these badgers’ lives and their welfare.
“They are just trying to live and survive on the last bit of land we humans have allowed them to in that area - soon to potentially be gone."
Another local resident said in a letter to planners: “We are very lucky to have badgers resident in Hanbury Hill and College Road, who have been a valuable part of our community for many years. Badgers are a protected species under the Protection of Badgers Act 1992. The proposed construction would be very disruptive and could have a detrimental impact.”
A planning statement submitted by planning agent AddisonRees Planning Consultancy Ltd on behalf of the applicant, confirms a badgers’ sett has been identified on site but it is described as an annexe sett “with the main sett likely situated off-site” and it adds: As such, and given the scale of the proposed works, it is considered that a precautionary method of working will be sufficient to ensure there is no damage to the badger sett or any of the tunnels.”
Nigel Tolley, chairman of the Badger Trust (West Midlands and Worcestershire) said a development cannot be refused because of the presence of badgers but the local authority has a responsibility to ensure the welfare of any badgers living on a development site.
A design and access statement submitted by INC Design Associates Ltd on behalf of the applicant says the development would deliver “new high quality living accommodation that respects the setting, meets local needs and will be a welcome addition to the housing stock”.
It says the scheme would create a “modern contemporary looking apartment block” which would be in keeping with the current building.
And it adds: “The development proposal represents an opportunity through the new landscaping and introduction of various nesting sites/ boxes to improve the habitat for a variety of flora and fauna, for the benefit of local wildlife.”
A petition has been started on Change.org (Stand With the People and Animals of Hanbury Hill) to highlight opposition to the proposed development and it has topped 170-signatures.
A public meeting to discuss the plan will take place at Hope Baptist Church, Chapel Street, on Monday October 14, starting at 7.30pm.
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