Meeting 1 summary
Introduction
The first meeting of the West Midlands Residents’ Assembly brought together around 50 residents from across the region to begin considering how the West Midlands can become the best place to live, work and visit. The Assembly has been established to ensure local people have a direct voice in shaping the future of the region, particularly through the development of the Spatial Development Strategy, a long-term plan that will guide growth and development over the next 20 to 30 years.
What the meeting covered
The meeting introduced members to the purpose of the Residents’ Assembly and the role of the Spatial Development Strategy in planning for future homes, jobs, transport links and green spaces. Participants heard from experts about the challenges facing the region and began building their understanding of the evidence that will inform future discussions and recommendations.
A significant focus of the session was the region’s housing challenge. Members learned about rising house prices, increasing pressure on social housing, overcrowding and the growing number of people living in temporary accommodation. They heard about the demand for additional homes over the next 20 years and explored the difficult choices involved in meeting this need, including decisions about housing density, affordability and where new development should be located.
The Assembly also examined the role of the Green Belt and the competing pressures surrounding its future use. Discussions highlighted the balance that must be struck between protecting open spaces, supporting nature and the environment, creating jobs, and delivering the homes and infrastructure needed for a growing population. Members began to consider the complex trade-offs involved and reflected on the different priorities that will need to be weighed up as the Assembly develops its recommendations over the coming months.
Need more information?
You can follow updates on the Residents’ Assembly and the Spatial Development Strategy as the work continues.
If you want to see the slides that were used at this or any meeting, you can request them by emailing: engagement@wmca.org.uk