The UK government is proposing changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) which could significantly impact the Green Belt around Hanham and beyond. These changes, outlined in the government's recent consultation document, aim to address the need for housing and development while maintaining the important role the Green Belt plays in preventing urban sprawl. However, they also introduce new concepts like the "grey belt" and propose changes that could see targeted releases of certain Green Belt areas for development.
Here’s what you need to know:
Prioritising Brownfield Land
The government has reiterated its commitment to prioritising brownfield land (previously developed land) for development. The principle is clear: development on brownfield sites should be supported as the first step towards meeting housing and commercial needs. The goal is to make it easier for local authorities to approve brownfield projects, with an emphasis on sustainable development.
However, the government recognises that brownfield land alone won't be enough to meet housing demand. This brings the focus to the Green Belt and the introduction of the grey belt.
Introducing the "Grey Belt"
A key change in the NPPF is the introduction of the grey belt. The grey belt refers to Green Belt land that is underutilised or of poor quality and does not strongly contribute to the Green Belt’s main purposes of preventing urban sprawl, preserving openness, and safeguarding the countryside. The grey belt could include areas like former industrial sites or land enclosed by urban developments that contribute little to the overall objectives of the Green Belt.
The government proposes that local authorities facing acute housing pressures should first consider brownfield sites and grey belt land before releasing more valuable Green Belt areas. This "sequential test" aims to ensure that only the least useful parts of the Green Belt are released for development.
Strategic Release of Green Belt Land
Currently, Green Belt boundaries can only be altered in "exceptional circumstances." The new proposals would require local planning authorities to review their Green Belt boundaries if they cannot meet their housing or commercial needs through brownfield and grey belt development alone. This would give councils more flexibility to release low-performing Green Belt land, but only after careful consideration and under strict sustainability principles.
The government insists that the core purpose of the Green Belt will remain unchanged. However, the strategic release of land will be subject to "golden rules," which are designed to ensure that any development brings clear benefits, such as the provision of affordable housing, new infrastructure, and improved public access to green spaces.
Protecting Green Spaces and Biodiversity
Despite the focus on development, the government is clear that environmental protections will remain in place. Land with existing environmental designations, such as National Parks and Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), will continue to be protected from development. Any development on grey belt land must adhere to mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain standards, ensuring that nature and wildlife are better off after the development than before.
Additionally, the government wants to improve public access to green spaces, ensuring that new developments include accessible parks or enhancements to existing green areas. This will be particularly important for residential developments, where the quality of life for new residents will be closely linked to access to nature.
Affordable Housing and Infrastructure
One of the most significant benefits the government hopes to deliver through these changes is more affordable housing. Under the proposed changes, at least 50% of the housing built on land released from the Green Belt will need to be affordable, with an emphasis on social rent. This is part of the government's broader effort to address the national housing crisis.
In addition to housing, the government wants to see improvements in local infrastructure, such as new schools, healthcare facilities, and transport links, built into any development plans. This is designed to ensure that new developments are well-supported and do not overburden existing infrastructure.
What Does This Mean for Hanham and the Surrounding Areas?
For areas like Hanham, which are surrounded by Green Belt land, these changes could mean a gradual shift in how land is used. While brownfield land will be prioritised, local authorities may be required to review grey belt areas for development. This could result in the release of low-performing Green Belt land, but only under strict conditions aimed at enhancing both the built and natural environments.
Hanham District Green Belt Conservation Society will continue to monitor these developments closely, advocating for the protection of valuable Green Belt land while recognising the need for sustainable, well-planned development.
If you have any questions or concerns about how these changes might impact our community, please don't hesitate to contact us. You might also consider joining the Society which costs £10 per household per year. Together, we can ensure that the Green Belt continues to serve its vital role in preserving our countryside while meeting the needs of future generations.
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