KIDDERMINSTER-based MEP James Carver has welcomed news that at least some green belt land in the town will now not be built on, following large scale public protests.

Mr Carver, who joined a residents’ march against plans to build on much-loved barley fields to the east of Spennells, off Stanklyn Lane, said he was “delighted” to hear the site and fields at the rear of Baldwin Road have been removed from the latest version of the Local Plan.

He said: “Whilst it’s disappointing that good agricultural land to the rear of Offmore will be developed for housing, I know how relieved residents will be that the barley fields are to be saved and the fields at the rear of Baldwin Road, close to the Hurcott Site of Special Scientific Interest.

“Spennells residents, in particular, who formed SAFE - Spennells Against Further Expansion – campaigned long and hard to save the barley fields, which are popular with walkers.

“I am very pleased they have been listened to by Wyre Forest District Council.”

A public consultation on the document is set to be launched on November 1 and will run until December 17, while eight drop in sessions will also be held across the district.

The Local Plan and information on how to submit comments will be available at www.wyreforestdc.gov.uk/localplanreview from Thursday, November 1.