Gavin Williamson, MP for South Staffordshire, is campaigning for a parish poll to be held on a proposal to build 19 new homes on green belt land in Pattingham.
The South Staffordshire Housing Association (SSHA), part of the Housing Plus Group, recently applied for planning permission for the affordable housing development, which would be built on a field adjacent to Hall End Lane.
Gavin is now urging the housing association to withdraw its planning application until a decision has been made on whether the parish poll will take place.
He is also asking the SSHA to confirm that it would abide by the results of a poll, should the majority of residents turn out to be against the scheme.
There is county precedent for holding a parish poll on a controversial planning issue. A recent parish poll, in Swindon, saw residents vote in favour of developing a rural exception site in the green belt (on the edge of the village in Himley Lane).
On holding a parish poll, Gavin said: “We would all like to see a considered debate and to have all of the facts put on the table, but what is vital is that the people of Pattingham have their say on this proposed development. What I am asking the housing association to do is to not progress its plans until it has been decided as to whether there is going to be a parish poll. Furthermore, if there is to be a parish poll, I would like to ensure that the wishes of local people, whether they are in favour of the proposal or against it – are heard and adhered to.
“I do not think it is unreasonable to ask for this little bit of extra time. I know that the housing association is a responsible organisation and I hope that they will be able to respond positively to my request.”
*UPDATE: Parish poll will now take place on September 19th.