Overview

The Land Use (Gardens Protection Etc.) 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. Specifically, it adds a new clause (71B) requiring planning authorities, including those under the Greater London Authority Act 1999 and the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, to give "special regard" to preserving gardens and urban green spaces when exercising their planning functions. The bill also defines "green space" to include land used as a public garden, for public recreation, or as an open space benefitting wildlife and biodiversity. This ensures a clear understanding of what constitutes a protected space.

Government Spending

The Bill is not expected to have a significant direct impact on government spending. The primary cost would be associated with the administrative changes required to implement the new provisions within existing planning processes. No specific figures are provided in the bill text.

Groups Affected

• Planning Authorities: These bodies will be directly affected, as they will be legally required to consider the preservation of green spaces in their planning decisions.
• Developers: Developers' projects may face stricter scrutiny and potentially be altered or rejected if they impact green spaces.
• Local Communities: Local communities will benefit from enhanced protection of green spaces, potentially leading to improved environmental quality and recreational opportunities.
• Wildlife and Biodiversity: The explicit inclusion of biodiversity in the definition of "green space" should offer increased protection for wildlife habitats.

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