Overview

The Land Use (Garden Protection) Bill aims to strengthen the protection of gardens and urban green spaces in England and Wales during planning processes. It mandates that planning authorities give special consideration to preserving these areas when making decisions.

Description

This bill amends the Town and Country Planning Act 1990. Key changes include:

• New Duty Regarding Gardens and Green Spaces: A new clause (Section 71B) is added, requiring planning authorities to give "special regard" to preserving gardens and urban green spaces when exercising their planning functions under various Acts (including the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, the Greater London Authority Act 1999, and the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004).
• Definition of "Green Space": The bill provides a clear definition of "green space," encompassing land used as public gardens, for public recreation, or benefiting wildlife and biodiversity.

The bill applies only to England and Wales.

Government Spending

The bill doesn't directly specify government spending. The impact on government spending is likely to be indirect, potentially increasing administrative costs for planning authorities due to the added consideration required for green spaces in planning decisions. No figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Planning Authorities: Will face increased responsibilities in considering green spaces during the planning process.
• Developers: May face more stringent requirements for development proposals affecting gardens and green spaces.
• Homeowners: Could see increased protection for their gardens and nearby green spaces from development.
• Environmental groups: Likely to benefit from enhanced protection for green spaces.
• Local communities: Could experience either positive (increased green space) or negative (restrictions on development) impacts depending on specific situations.

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