Thank you for your e-Petition, please note that the below is a copy of the response provided by the Head of Education and Sufficiency and Access to the lead petitioner on 29 May 2026.  

Thank you for your e-petition regarding opposition to the proposed Free School in Walsall. Your comments have been logged and will be considered as part of the planning process. 

We acknowledge your concerns about the potential loss of green space at Reedswood and the impact on wildlife. The Department for Education’s proposed site is the former private golf course (previously the site of a power station), which is currently disused. The adjacent public park will not be affected. In addition, the proposals include a new cycle and walking route around the perimeter of the site to enhance public access to the park. 

At this stage, no final decision has been made as the proposals are still subject to the statutory planning process (including consultation and environmental assessments).  

The DfE and their advisors will be submitting a planning application for the school. When this application is submitted, it will be published on the Local Authority's planning application website with the opportunity for people to provide comments. 

With regard to traffic, access, and parking, we have noted concerns about congestion, on-street parking, and road safety. Any application must include appropriate highways information, which will be reviewed to assess network capacity, junction impacts, and safety. 

Where mitigation is needed, it can be secured through planning conditions and/or legal agreements (for example access changes, on-site drop-off arrangements, crossing/footway improvements, and a School Travel Plan). 

On the matter of ecology, trees, and open space, if the proposal could affect trees or habitats the applicant must submit suitable ecology and tree information for review. Where necessary, mitigation or compensation (including replacement planting and habitat measures) can be secured through the planning process. 

Pedestrian safety will also be assessed, including walking routes and any crossing needs. Any required improvements can be secured through the planning process. 

Regarding alternative sites, the Department for Education reviewed a number of sites to assess a range of options to meet the need for additional school places. This work considers factors such as the size and suitability of land, deliverability, access, and the ability to provide a safe school environment. Based on this assessment, the Reedswood site has been identified as a suitable option to take forward; however, any decision on whether development can proceed remains subject to the planning application process and consideration of all relevant planning matters.   

Thank you for taking the time to get in touch.