Sir Gavin Williamson has called for the rejection of plans to build 81 houses on farmland at Weeping Cross which would see the village of Acton Trussell merge with Stafford.
Sir Gavin recently joined local residents, Councillors, and other groups to formulate further objections after the plans resurfaced.
Following new Government directives, South Staffordshire District Council is tasked with meeting a target of just over 4,700 new homes across the District up to 2041.
Concerns have been raised that if the plan to build 81 homes is approved, it could open the possibility of kickstarting plans to build 2,500 homes which are already included in prospective initiatives by the District Council – further increasing the pressure on already stretched infrastructure.
Sir Gavin said: “It is highly disappointing that yet more of own green belt is under attack – destroying our green spaces, and concreting over our countryside. I am working tirelessly with local Councillors and other groups to strongly oppose the destruction of our green fields.
“The plans to build 81 houses in Acton Trussell will merge the village with Stafford – affecting the character of the village and heaping pressure on infrastructure.
“As a small village, Acton Trussell simply cannot cope with further development. The infrastructure cannot support increases in population, whilst the local road network will not be able to withstand further congestion. There is also the very real concern of overloading capacity at schools and GP practices.
“I also note that Stafford Borough Council oppose these plans, and therefore, there is universal objection from all sides with the exception of the ideological driven Government.
“Labour are keen to alter the character of Staffordshire and further urbanise the County for their policy benefits. I will stand alongside residents, Councillors, and local groups to oppose further encroachment and protect the unique identity of our green spaces.”
