A PLAN to build 13 new homes on council owned open space in Norton, Stourbridge, is to go before planners tonight (Tuesday March 5).

Members of Dudley’s Development Control Committee are being asked to approve the housing scheme to help regenerate an area of empty and disused land off The Broadway.

The plan comprises eight two-bedroom bungalows and five one-bedroom bungalows off Maynard Avenue with pedestrian access from The Broadway and Westwood Avenue.

But residents have said it will lead to the loss of an open space which is used by the community.

A total of 17 objections have raised fears of traffic and road safety and the loss of land used for dog walking and as a children’s play area.

The plan is being put forward just weeks after a committee member blasted a similar plan.

Cllr Bryan Cotterill hit out in February when he asked: “Is there a rule that we we don’t have any open spaces?

“It’s got to stop, this building on every blade of grass, because come tomorrow - where are children going to play, walk or whatever?

He added: “We are struggling to protect open spaces.”

Recommending the latest scheme, planning officers accept the land is mainly a greenfield site but say: “It is deemed to have limited inherent or wider community or environmental value so as to justify its retention as open space.

“In addition, the proposal site falls within a part of the urban area which is already served by publicly accessible green space sites within a five minute walk.”