CONCERNED Halesowen and Rowley Regis MP James Morris has launched a survey on plans to build on park land in Rowley Regis.

Working with local campaigners Bob Dunn and Satpal Singh, the Tory MP is urging residents to give their views on the proposal which he claims will see the loss of more than 9,000 square meters of green space.

However, Sandwell Council leader Councillor Steve Eling said leaflets which have been distributed in the area have been “misrepresenting the facts”.

Mr Morris said: “Several local residents have been in contact with me concerning the proposed development of the green open space off Moor Lane, opposite Rowley Regis Crematorium.

“As far as I know, no public consultation has taken place, and those who live closest to or use the green open space have not been asked their views.

“That’s why, as your local MP and working with local campaigners Bob Dunn and Satpal Singh, I want to make sure you have your say on this important local development.

“Many local people are concerned about the loss of green open space, which local residents use for leisure activities. I'd like to urge all local residents to take part in this survey.”

Visit www.jamesmorrismp.com/campaigns/moor-lane-survey for more information, or to complete the survey.

Last year, Sandwell Council agreed to look into building on the open space, and in February this year approved a report which allows them to try to fund the development.

But as of yet, no formal planning application has been submitted.

Cllr Eling said: “Details about proposals for the development of part of the field at Moor Lane have been in the public domain for more than a year.

“The proposals state this development will only take up around a quarter of the field in one corner along the line of the apartments that were built there in recent years.

“The matter will be consulted on when plans are produced and it is premature to consult with the public until full details of the plans are available. This is likely to be in the autumn.

“Should planning permission be granted, this development will provide around 90 new properties for older people in the area who are in desperate need of supported housing.”

These plans are believed to be separate to the council’s recent planning application to build a new cemetery on the public open space behind the houses in Powke Lane, also opposite the crematorium.