KIDDERMINSTER campaigners are facing another battle now that details of a new 120-home plan have emerged.
Leaflets outlining a new housing plan off Habberley Road, by building firm Bovis Homes, have been received by neighbours of the site.
Richborough Estates previously submitted a controversial application for 124 new homes at the field, but it was refused by Wyre Forest District Council’s planning committee in July 2022.
There were concerns raised by residents and councillors that the highway infrastructure would not support increased traffic levels.
The Habberley Road site was released from green belt status following the passing of the 2016-2036 Local Plan last year.
The Stop the Habberley Road Development action group was formed after the Richborough Estates plans were submitted, with more than 500 people objecting to the application.
Residents lamented the potential loss of green space and raised concerns about the development's impact on wildlife, the landscape and increased traffic. Back in April 2022, hundreds formed a human chain in protest along Habberley Road.
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Members of the action group have been sharing their frustration at the new housing plan on Facebook.
After the first plan was rejected, Dr Merlyn Wilcox, of the Stop the Habberley Road Development group, described it as a "battle won," but admitted that "the war isn't over."
Responding to the new plans, he told The Shuttle: "The fields shouldn't have ever been allocated as building land.
"I'm sure we will be encouraging as many people as possible to put in objections.
"I can't see how it's doing anything for the housing needs for the people of Kidderminster.
"All it's addressing is sprawl and private car commuting for Birmingham and the Black Country.
"There are lots of places that should be developed that are brownfield. They would be much more suitable".
The Bovis Homes leaflet says that a planning application is being prepared for submission in early 2023.
The leaflet highlights that 25 per cent of the homes will be affordable. Additional tree planting is proposed and protected trees will be retained.
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