September 2020
Green Belt boundaries can only be altered in preparing local plans where “exceptional circumstances” are required. A study has been carried out into 18 local plan examination reports from 2018/19 and 2019/20 by Planning magazine to highlight five of the most frequent factors to justify exceptional circumstances for Green Belt release.
These are:
o Unmet Need for Development
Housing need and availability of affordable homes are advocated in the main, but also employment growth and educational requirements.
o The Release is the Most Sustainable Option
Locating development outside the Green Belt would not be a sustainable approach where there is need for local access to services and facilities, and access to sustainable modes of transport.
o Lack of Contribution to Green Belt Purposes
Where Green Belt reviews have taken place, councils may acquiesce to the release of land that scores less well against the national policy tests.
o Creation of Defensible Boundaries Clear boundaries provided by existing roads, woodland, hedgerows, railways lines and other physical features may bolster the permanence of the Green Belt and provide a more robust barrier to future encroachment.
o Limited Visual Impact
Visual impact could be a relevant factor in exercising planning judgement when considering the impact of development on Green Belt openness.