Meriden and Solihull East MP Saqib Bhatti has written to Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council (SMBC) raising concerns about Government planning reforms which could make it easier for new homes to be built near railway stations.

The Conservative MP contacted Cllr Andy Mackiewicz, SMBC's cabinet member for climate change and planning, following changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) announced by housing secretary Angela Rayner.

The reforms are intended to support the delivery of thousands of homes close to England's train, tram and underground networks, but Mr Bhatti warned they could increase development pressure in parts of Solihull.

In his letter, he urged the council to consider the implications of the changes when developing the borough's Local Plan and ensure future housing is appropriate, sustainable and supported by local infrastructure.

Mr Bhatti said communities near existing or proposed railway stations, including Dorridge and Hampton-in-Arden, could face greater pressure for development.

He also raised concerns about the potential impact on surrounding greenbelt land and rural areas.

The MP said that while good transport links can support sustainable development, being close to a railway station should not automatically justify large-scale housing schemes.

Commenting, Mr Bhatti said: "Labour's changes could open the door to significantly more development around railway stations across Meriden and Solihull East.

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"Being close to a station cannot mean an automatic green light for large-scale housing without considering the impact on local communities and infrastructure like our schools and NHS."

Mr Bhatti also highlighted concerns about Labour's revised definition of "greybelt" land and the potential effect on the Meriden Gap, which separates Solihull and Coventry.

He added: "We must protect our green spaces and prevent urban sprawl, rather than allowing national housing targets to dictate where development takes place.

"We need homes in the right places, supported by the schools, NHS and infrastructure that our communities need."