Part One: Spatial Strategy and Policies (Regulation 18)

Support

Representation ID: 510

Received: 19/12/2023

Respondent: Clowes Development LTD

Agent: Harris Lamb

Policy DLP18, I.c. – Clowes support that Dudley will seek to deliver “the development of employment sites outside of the Borough, which have an evidenced functional economic link to Dudley Borough”. The Clowes’ site clearly can demonstrate a functional economic link to Dudley Borough.

Comment

Representation ID: 511

Received: 19/12/2023

Respondent: Clowes Development LTD

Agent: Harris Lamb

Policy DLP2 – Clowes do not object to the proposed Regeneration Corridors being the primary focus for new development but, as stated in the policy, will not deliver the outstanding employment land requirement. Pensnett Trading Estate (PTE) is one of the “strategic employment areas” within a proposed Regeneration Corridor which extends towards South Staffordshire. Pensnett however has less than 5% spare capacity meaning there is very limited flexibility for growing businesses and redevelopment opportunities. Clowes’ site is only 3km from the centre of PTE, via the A491 and B4175.

Comment

Representation ID: 512

Received: 19/12/2023

Respondent: Clowes Development LTD

Agent: Harris Lamb

There is a significant shortfall in employment land in the Dudley Regulation 18 Preferred Options Local Plan. It is evident that Dudley MBC need to engage positively with South Staffordshire District Council and identify suitable employment sites which will deliver benefits for both economies. In short, the Clowes’ Site represents jobs for local people and is important for bolstering the strength of the local economy for the benefit of all. Not providing this land will have a negative impact on local people and it is the local people who will suffer if a solution cannot be found.
Clear and decisive action is needed to ensure these needs are met and the starting point should be discussions with South Staffordshire to urge them, under the statutory Duty to Cooperate, to provide appropriate land needed to deliver these jobs.