Meeting 2 summary
Introduction
The second meeting of the West Midlands Residents' Assembly took place online and focused on understanding the Green Belt and the choices involved in how land is used across the region.
As part of its work to inform the West Midlands' Spatial Development Strategy (SDS), members explored how the region can balance the need for new homes with protecting the environment and supporting nature.
What the meeting covered
During the meeting, members learned about the purpose of the Green Belt, how it differs from other types of land, and why it plays an important role in planning decisions. They also explored alternative approaches to managing growth used in other countries and considered whether there are different ways to meet the West Midlands' future housing needs.
The session also examined how housing, nature and climate change are connected. Members heard how well-planned developments can not only provide new homes but also improve biodiversity, reduce flood risk and create accessible green spaces for local communities.
Throughout the session, the Assembly discussed the opportunities and trade-offs involved in planning for future growth, including:
- Balancing housing need with protecting the Green Belt.
- Prioritising brownfield land while considering other land options.
- Supporting nature recovery alongside new development.
- Planning communities that benefit both people and the environment.
Assembly members took part in small group discussions, asked questions of expert speakers and shared their own views and experiences to help build a broad understanding of the issues.
This meeting reinforced that there are no simple answers to the region's housing challenges. Instead, careful decisions will be needed to balance housing, the environment and land availability in a way that benefits future generations.
The Residents' Assembly will continue over the coming months, with members hearing more evidence before developing recommendations that will be shared with the West Midlands Combined Authority and local councils to help shape the Spatial Development Strategy.
Need more information?
If you would like to view the presentation slides from this meeting or future sessions, please email engagement@wmca.org.uk.