People can ask questions and make comments on a major plan for housing and employment land across Dudley borough at a special meeting next week.

The draft Black Country Plan is currently out for consultation until October 11. The plan aims to identify land for housing and employment purposes across the Black Country while continuing to protect green belt land from developers.

Leaders in Dudley have made it clear that their intention is to prioritise use of formerly developed ‘brownfield’ land in order to protect greenbelt land.

At the same time, the plans are being looked at by the Future Council Scrutiny Committee. People have the opportunity to ask questions at the next committee meeting on October 6. Councillor Simon Phipps, cabinet member for regeneration and enterprise, said:

"We have made it clear that we want to give people every opportunity to have their say on these important plans, and next week’s scrutiny committee is just one of the ways we are doing that.

"Here at Dudley Council we have stressed many times that we will leave no stone unturned in identifying brownfield land to protect our greenbelt as much as we can, but it is important to hear the views of local people as well.”

The Future Council scrutiny committee will take place on October 6 at Dudley Town Hall, St James’s Road from 6pm. Residents can have their say during the public forum session of the agenda.

People planning to attend do not need to book in advance. People are encouraged to wear a face mask when they arrive. Numbers inside the building will be limited to keep everyone safe. The meeting will also be broadcast live on the Council’s You Tube channel.

The ongoing consultation runs from August 16 to October 11. People can find out more and complete the survey online.

A series of drop-in sessions have taken place across the borough, but residents can still call for advice on 01384 814136.

Alternatively people can visit their local library or council reception area. The easiest way for people to comment is via email, people can send their comments to blackcountryplan@dudley.gov.uk.