Overview

The Green Belt Protection Bill aims to strengthen the protection of 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 land designated as green belt in England as of January 1st, 2021. This register will be publicly accessible and updated regularly to reflect any changes in designation. The bill significantly restricts the ability of local authorities to de-designate existing green belt land. De-designation will only be permitted if the local authority designates an alternative area of equal or greater size that meets specific criteria. This criteria includes being adjacent to areas of above-average housing density, and meeting any requirements set out in the National Planning Policy Framework. Furthermore, any new development on land previously de-designated as green belt cannot exceed the density of adjacent housing.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify any new government spending figures. The costs associated with creating and maintaining the national register, and any potential legal challenges, would need to be considered separately. There's no explicit mention of budget allocations in this bill.

Groups Affected

• Local Authorities: Face stricter regulations on de-designating green belt land, potentially impacting local planning and housing strategies.
• Developers: May experience limitations on development opportunities in green belt areas and former green belt land due to density restrictions.
• Environmental groups: Likely to support the bill as it enhances green belt protection.
• Residents: Depending on location, residents may experience either enhanced protection of green spaces or potential restrictions on housing development.

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