Protecting Our Green Belt: New National Planning Policy Framework Implications

"The Batch" in Hanham, South Gloucestershire

The updated National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), published on 12th December 2024, provides critical guidance on Green Belt development that has significant implications for South Gloucestershire. It is therefore crucial for residents of Hanham and interested stakeholders to understand these new regulations that will shape our local landscape's future.

The Fundamental Purpose of Green Belt

The government continues to emphasise the paramount importance of the Green Belt, reaffirming its fundamental aim: preventing urban sprawl by maintaining land permanently open. The five core purposes of Green Belt remain unchanged:

1. Preventing Unrestricted Urban Sprawl: Containing the uncontrolled expansion of built-up areas.

2. Preventing Town Merger: Maintaining distinct identities of neighbouring towns.

3. Safeguarding Countryside: Protecting rural landscapes from urban encroachment.

4. Preserving Historic Settings: Maintaining the character of historic towns.

5. Encouraging Urban Regeneration: Promoting the recycling of urban and derelict land.

Exceptional Circumstances for Green Belt Boundary Changes

The new NPPF sets a high bar for altering Green Belt boundaries. Modifications are only permitted under "exceptional circumstances" that must be:

• Fully evidenced and justified

• Demonstrated through strategic policy preparation

• Capable of enduring beyond the current plan period

Crucially, these circumstances might include situations where local authorities cannot meet housing needs through alternative means. However, before considering Green Belt boundary changes, authorities must:

• Maximise use of brownfield and underutilised land

• Optimise development density

• Explore accommodating development with neighbouring authorities

Development Priorities Within Green Belt

When development becomes necessary, the NPPF establishes a clear hierarchy:

1. Priority to previously developed land

2. Consideration of grey belt land

3. Evaluation of other Green Belt locations

Any development must:

• Maintain consistency with sustainable development strategies

• Avoid unnecessarily occupying permanently open land

• Define boundaries using recognisable, permanent physical features

Affordable Housing and Golden Rules

A significant new feature is the "Golden Rules" for housing development on released Green Belt land:

• Mandatory affordable housing contribution

• Infrastructure improvements

• Provision of accessible green spaces

The affordable housing requirement is particularly noteworthy: developers must provide 15 percentage points above existing requirements, up to a maximum of 50%.

Protecting Green Belt Character

The framework emphasises preserving the Green Belt's essential characteristics:

• Substantial weight must be given to potential harm

• "Very special circumstances" must clearly outweigh any Green Belt harm

• Inappropriate development remains strongly discouraged

Renewable Energy and Green Belt

Even renewable energy projects face scrutiny. Developers must demonstrate "very special circumstances," typically by highlighting broader environmental benefits.

Implications for South Gloucestershire

For our local community, these regulations mean:

• Robust protection against unnecessary urban expansion

• A structured approach to potential development

• Enhanced requirements for community and environmental benefits

• Continued preservation of our cherished green spaces

Conclusion

While the new NPPF provides some flexibility for housing development, it maintains a strong commitment to protecting Green Belt land. Hanham District Green Belt Conservation Society will remain vigilant to ensure that these guidelines are rigorously applied.

Further updates will be published on the Society’s website in the coming weeks.