Meriden and Solihull East MP Saqib Bhatti has accused West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker of being "deeply disrespectful" to residents concerned about the future of Solihull's green belt.

The Conservative MP's comments come after the mayor reportedly described concerns over Labour's planning reforms as "a bit of an overreaction".

The criticism follows the Government's plans to hand regional mayors greater powers over major planning applications.

Under the proposals, mayors will be able to intervene in developments involving more than 150 homes, large commercial schemes and buildings over 30 metres high, while also being given powers to grant upfront permission for some projects.

Mr Bhatti said the mayor's remarks would do little to reassure residents worried about the impact the changes could have on Solihull.

He said: "Richard Parker's response is deeply disrespectful of the very real concerns being raised by people across Solihull.

"Instead of trying to challenge Labour's dubious definition of greybelt he calls these concerns an overreaction and confirms what I have feared all along.

"He will not stand up for the people of Solihull out of fear that he might upset this Labour government."

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Mr Bhatti has previously warned that Labour's planning reforms could place greater pressure on green belt land and reduce the influence local communities have over major developments.

He added: "People in Solihull know how precious our green belt is, and they should not be told that their concerns are an overreaction when powers are being introduced that could take important planning decisions further away from local communities.

"This is not about being against development; it is about ensuring development is appropriate, locally accountable and does not come at the expense of our countryside."

The Government says the new powers are intended to speed up housebuilding and prevent major developments becoming delayed in the planning system.

The changes will apply across 13 mayoral areas, including the West Midlands.

However, concerns have been raised in Solihull over the potential impact on green belt land, infrastructure and local decision-making.

Mr Bhatti said the issue ultimately comes down to local accountability, adding: "The fundamental question remains, why should local people have less of a say over major developments in their own communities?"