The concept of ‘green belt’ is undoubtedly an issue of contention politically and socially. It is a phrase you have probably heard mentioned repeatedly on the news but what exactly is it?
What is the green belt?
Green belt is a specially designated area of land protected from most forms of development. It is protected to help stop urban sprawl, preserve the character of existing settlements, provide areas for agriculture, forests and habitats for native wildlife and encourage development within existing built-up areas.
They were first suggested in the 1930s, but it was the new Town and Country Planning Act in 1947 that gave local authorities powers to designate them.
Government policy on protection for the Green Belt is set out in chapter 13 of the National Policy Framework.
Why is it such a controversial topic?
The green belt seems to always be in the press with differing sides on protections.
Some argue that the protections afforded by the Green Belt are not adequate, and inappropriate development can advance on the Green Belt, while others argue that the protections are too much, and get in the way of building sufficient housing and consequently limit economic growth.
Though, to apply a black-and-white view to the implementation of the green belt would be an incorrect approach, especially with social needs involved. With a housing crisis in many cities, it would seem to some a ridiculous idea to restrict development, especially in areas which have a high demand such as the M25. Equally, there is a need to ensure villages, countryside and agriculture around this area are protected too. As a result, a balance needs to be achieved with many factors taken into consideration.
How do you secure planning permission in the Greenbelt?
Green Belt areas have some of the strictest planning controls. As a result, securing planning permission to develop in the Green Belt can be a challenge.
What is defined as appropriate development in the Green Belt has a very narrow definition and as such most types of development including residential are deemed inappropriate in this context. That said, it doesn’t mean that securing planning permission for new homes in the Green Belt is impossible, but you will need a strong justification for it.
Some developments that are the stated exception to the general rule in government policy include:
- Agricultural buildings
- Facilities for outdoor sports and recreation
- The extension or alteration of an existing building (as long as it is not a disproportionate addition compared to the existing)
- The replacement of an existing building by one that is not materially larger
- Limited infilling in some villages
- The redevelopment of larger, already-developed sites within the developed boundaries of the site
- Shortage of land for new homes can be considered exceptional circumstances
What is the future looking like for the green belt?
Given the importance which politicians have given to the green belt, it is clear that this is something that will be around for a long time yet, whether that is strengthening or relaxing rules. For example, the Levelling Up and Regnantion Bill will deliver commitments by PM Rishi Sunak on strengthening Green Belt Protections, and new guidance setting out that local authorities are not required to review green belt to deliver homes will be published.
This article is purely speculative and should not be mistaken for financial advice. Readers should consult a professional independently before making any financial decisions.