- The Green Belt may be saved by new plans set to be announced by Michael Gove
England’s green and pleasant land looks set to be saved by a plan the Government will announce.
Housing Secretary Michael Gove will tell councils they don’t have to build new homes on the Green Belt if a development would significantly change the area’s character.
The move to protect the countryside could be announced as soon as this Thursday, The Times reported.
The old system meant local authorities had to earmark land to meet future housing needs even if the plans were opposed by people living in the area.
If councils didn’t do so, the planning inspectorate could have forced housing developments on them.
However, the planned change means councils will be able to create plans for fewer homes if they can show that meeting the target would damage the area’s character or require building on green belt land.
A government source told The Times: ‘We are reforming the planning system to put local plan-making at its heart.
‘This will allow communities to take back control of housing in their area, while supporting much-needed development in brownfield and inner-city sites.’
The move comes after the Government looked at more than 26,000 responses to a consultation about the issue.
Some in the industry have voiced concerns about the move, saying it could worsen the situation in areas worst by a housing shortage.
However, the move will likely quell pressure from rebel Conservative MPs who fear losing their seat at the next election if they don’t stop plans to build new homes on the Green Belt.
William Turner is a seasoned U.K. correspondent with a deep understanding of domestic affairs. With a passion for British politics and culture, he provides insightful analysis and comprehensive coverage of events within the United Kingdom.
