Gavin Williamson MP for South Staffordshire, has today called upon Ian King, Chief Executive of BAE Systems Plc to deliver on a promise made by his company.
On the site of the Former Royal Ordinance Factory near the village of Featherstone BAE Systems had made a commitment to plant one hundred acres of community woodland as part of planning permissions in order to develop the remainder of the Royal Ordinance Site. Gavin Williamson MP has raised concerns that this commitment has yet to be delivered on and has asked Mr King to ensure that the planting is progressed and that they work in conjunction with South Staffordshire District Council to achieve this.
Commenting on this Gavin Williamson MP said:
‘It is vitally important that the promise that was made to the local community in Featherstone that has given so much in the past to BAE Systems, is honoured. It is my hope that BAE Systems will adhere to this commitment as it will vastly enhance the local area. I think this commitment is of great importance to residents in South Staffordshire and I greatly look forward to receiving a positive response from BAE Systems.’
The Royal Ordinance Factory was a major employer in the Wolverhampton and South Staffordshire area but operations on the site ceased a number of years ago. The site has been outlined for industrial development but the areas close to Featherstone village had been outlined for the creation of community forests and local residents are still waiting for this promise to be fulfilled.