Regional Spatial Strategy Review Phase 1 RSS 11 for the West Midlands is being partially reviewed in three stages. Phase 1, which deals with planning issues for the Black Country (Wolverhampton, Walsall, Sandwell and Dudley), has been completed. CPRE submitted evidence to the Independent Panel who considered Phase 1. The Government has now issued an updated version of RSS1 including the changes. We welcome: The emphasis on early environmental improvements to the sub-region. The adoption of a Climate Change Policy. The rejection by the Panel of the case for urban extensions to the sub-region. Rejection of major road building options, including a Western Orbital Motorway. We would have liked to have seen: Additional protection for the green wedges, including the major stretch of green belt into Walsall and Sandwell. The Panel put particualr emphasis on public transport improvements to support the strategy and specifically improving bus and rail infrastructure. We supported this and were disappointed that the Secretary of State did not include those suggestions. Nevertheless the Black Country local authorities are now working towards a Joint Core Strategy which will deal with the delivery of the RSS policies on the ground and we will be seeking to ensure that this adequately reflects the issues raised by is in Phase 1. Many other issues which effect the Black Country, such as the overall level of housing, are being considered in Phase 2 of the review. 15.01.09