Overview

The Green Belt (Protection) Bill aims to protect green belt land in England by creating a national register, restricting de-designation, and controlling development on land previously designated as green belt.

Description

This bill establishes a national register of all green belt land as it existed on January 1st, 2019. It will be updated to reflect any changes since then, classifying land de-designated after that date as "Former Green Belt land" and newly designated land as "New Green Belt land".

The bill significantly restricts the ability of local authorities to de-designate existing green belt land. De-designation is only permitted if:

• The local authority designates an alternative area of equal or greater size as green belt.
• This alternative land abuts land with above-average housing density.
• The alternative land meets criteria set out in the National Planning Policy Framework.
• The land to be de-designated is not "New Green Belt land".

The bill also limits the density of new housing developments on "Former Green Belt land" to match that of adjacent properties.

Government Spending

The bill does not specify any direct government spending figures. However, the implementation of the national register and the enforcement of the new restrictions on de-designation may involve administrative costs.

Groups Affected

• Local Authorities: Their power to de-designate green belt land is significantly curtailed, potentially impacting local planning decisions and housing development strategies.
• Developers: Development opportunities on green belt land are severely restricted, which may affect their profitability and project plans.
• Environmental Groups: The bill provides enhanced protection for green belt land, aligning with their conservation goals.
• Residents: Those living near green belt land may see changes in development density and potential impacts on local amenities.

Powered by nyModel