What is the 'Grey Belt' and when might it be developed under the new Labour Government
With the Government seeking to 'unlock' the planning system for increased housing provision and more sustainable development, the targeted Green Belt changes and introduction of a 'Grey Belt', in its revision of the NPPF are key.
Under the proposed National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), the definition of the Grey Belt would be:
"...land in the Green Belt comprising Previously Developed Land and any other parcels and/or areas of Green Belt land that make a limited contribution to the five Green Belt purposes"
Whilst the Government is keen to improve house building numbers, it has not given carte blanche to developers who wish to build in the newly defined Grey Belt.
Balancing the need for development with the protection of the Green Belt
Any development will not be permitted to fundamentally undermine the function of the Green Belt across the area of the development plan as a whole, with the Government committed to ensuring the overarching integrity of the Green Belt.
To that end, any land released in the Green Belt will have at least one of the following features:
- Land containing substantial built development, or which is fully enclosed by built form
- Land which makes no or very little contribution to preventing neighboring towns from merging into one another
- Land which is dominated by urban land uses, including physical developments
- Land which contributes little to preserving the setting and special character of historic towns
The prospective development will also be subject to 'golden rules' to ensure it delivers in the public interest which include:
- 50% affordable housing in any new development, subject to viability
- Necessary improvements to local or national infrastructure, including delivery of new schools, GP surgeries, transport links, care homes and nursery places
- The provision of new, or improvements to existing, local green spaces that are accessible to the public – where residential development is involved, new residents should be able to access good quality green spaces within a short walk of their homes
A final version?
The definition of the Grey Belt and when this land may be suitable for development is currently still subject to change, with the Government consultation on the provisions of the NPPF closing at the end of September 2024.
Following the consultation, the final version of the NPPF is expected to be adopted before the end of year.