David Smith

Recently I gave an interview to the BBC politics Show, the subject was the governments intervention on the proposed housing numbers planned for the next 20 years. The 38 Councils in the West Midlands identified 365,000 houses needed to be built in the next 20 years. The government did not consider that this was sufficient and appointed consultants to look at how these could be increased. The study which cost £211,000 considered we could find up 80,000 more failed to consider any increase in the urban regeneration zones and highlighted more development in rural areas and on green field sites.

Fortunately no increase is proposed over and above the 8,000 homes we plan for Lichfield district. 

"It was with great disappointment that I heard of Lichfield Cathedral's news that they did not succeed in their bid for funding. Lichfield Cathedral is a vital element of our historic city and of our vibrant tourist industry, which is so important for so many local businesses. It is one of the Midland's, if not England's, most  significant cathedrals. This news is incredibly disappointing for our city and for the Cathedral as it will slow down vital restoration work. However, I look forward to the Heritage Lottery Fund being able to reconsider its decision in the future." 

Earlier this year the 38 local Councils in the region identified the number of houses they could accommodate in their area over the next 20 years, before they were published the Government said they were not enough and appointed London consultants to review how these can be increased.

I am relieved to say that they have not increased the 8000 we identified and will include in our local plan.

Other areas are not so lucky with massive increases proposed for parts of Staffordshire,Worcestershire and Warwickshire. Details are on the Government Office for the West midlands web site. 

Pictured here with the head of the Lodz Regional fire service.

                                                                                                                                                                           This picture shows me with the Marshall of lodz Region at the street fair in the heart of the City. 

While in Lodz I presented several proposals to Polish organisations including exchanges of computer software, business development opportunities and educational exchanges.

During my visit to Lodz I participated in a Televison interview which took place in a studio constructed in the middle of the main pedestrianised street in the City cetre.