As expected, the new Government has released information which will be used to set “mandatory” targets for housing for all local authorities. The impact of this on Enfield and the draft Local Plan is not yet known, but could increase the housing demand in LBE and put pressure on the “gray belt”.
In addition to the targets, the Government intends to make changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) which is the blue-print by which Local Plans are assessed.
The charity Civic Voice has now issued a press release on the proposed changes to the Planning System. Among the points highlighted by Civic Voice are:
- Green Belt Review: Councils will be required to review their green belt land and prioritise ‘grey belt’ land where necessary. Development in the Green Belt will be governed by new “golden rules,” mandating that 50% of homes built must be affordable. Additionally, developments must enhance access to green spaces and ensure the provision of essential infrastructure such as schools and GP surgeries.
- Definition of Grey Belt: For the purposes of plan-making and decision-making, grey belt will be defined as 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 (as defined in paragraph 140 of the Framework), but excluding those areas or assets of particular importance listed in footnote 7 of the Framework (other than land designated as Green Belt).
- Grey Belt Land: In areas where councils lack up-to-date plans or fail to meet local housing targets, homebuilders will be permitted to propose developments on grey belt land.
- Brownfield Development: The Government will prioritise brownfield sites for new development, with a clear directive that the default position should be “yes” to brownfield proposals. This is to encourage higher-density housing in urban centres.
The Government is expected to publish revisions to the National Planning Policy Framework before the end of the year, aiming for swift implementation of policy changes.