The tranquility of our countryside, the very essence of what makes our community special, is under an unprecedented assault. What we’re witnessing today is a prime example of how the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), despite its stated intentions, is enabling developers to steamroller over our cherished Green Belt. This isn’t just a concern; it’s a major threat that should alarm every resident who values our local landscape.

Here at BAG (Burntwood Action Group), and for countless local residents, the idea of losing our Green Belt is simply unacceptable. We want to continue to enjoy our countryside the way it is—a vital green lung, a haven for wildlife, and a place for relaxation and recreation.

What’s even more disheartening is the apparent total disregard by our councillors. These are the very individuals who are elected to represent us, to listen to our concerns, and to protect our interests. Yet, time and again, it feels as though the voices of local residents are being ignored in favor of development interests. This disconnect is deeply troubling and undermines the democratic process.

The Green Belt was established to prevent urban sprawl, to safeguard the countryside from inappropriate development, and to preserve the character of our towns and villages. When developers are allowed to build on these protected lands, it sets a dangerous precedent, chipping away at the very fabric of our environment and community.

We cannot afford to be silent. Now more than ever, we need to stand together to protect our precious Green Belt. We need to demand that our councillors genuinely listen to us and prioritise the long-term well-being of our community over short-term gains for developers.

Following the planning meeting at Lichfield District Council for the battery energy facility, Jodie commented:

“My name’s Jodie and I’m just a local resident. However, I was in attendance last night and as someone who has door-stepped over the past decade with petitions I’ve never actually been present at one of the council meetings before and was shocked at how easy it was for speakers to shrug off key factual errors in written reports – mind blowingly ‘green belt’ and ‘grey belt’ were waffled away as meaning the same thing and incorrect distances regarding urban sprawl were also just scarily brushed off as well! Can I ask if these low standards are typical when assessing planning applications? If not, why in this case? And if so, we need to put together a nationally relevant petition to make these people as accountable as journalists and lawyers are when submitting written documents as this is clearly a very worrying issue!”

Read the full article on Lichfield Live here…