Government waters down commitment to build affordable homes in National Planning Policy Framework

The government has announced an overhaul of the National Planning Policy Framework, setting out the government’s planning policies for England and how these are expected to be applied.

New planning rules updated via the revised Framework (published on 12 December) will allow construction on more of the buffer zone around major towns and cities, and proposes that any development on the green belt must meet the government’s “golden rules”.

The announcement also appears to water down the commitment for a 50% target of affordable housing for any developments on the green belt, with the proposal only requiring “a premium level of social and affordable housing”. In addition, councils and developers will be told to give “greater consideration to social rent” when building homes.

The government is also widening the definition of what is classed 'low quality green belt' or 'grey belt' - which has often already been used for some development but which is still covered by the strictest classification. 

Responding to the announcement, a spokesperson for the Countryside Alliance stated:

“We recognise the urgent need for more homes and welcome the reclassification of ‘grey belt’ land to unlock suitable areas for development. However, this must not come at the expense of thoughtful, sustainable planning. This approach must prioritise truly ‘low-quality’ sites and ensure these homes are affordable for the communities they serve.”

 

“Protections must exist for a reason, not just because of historic designation. The reclassification of grey belt land should be an opportunity to develop on the right land whilst protecting the wider countryside.”

The Countryside Alliance urges the government to work collaboratively with local authorities, rural organisations, and communities to ensure that these changes respect both the need for housing and the value of our countryside.

The Countryside Alliance, which responded to the consultation in September, supported the reclassification of parts of the green belt and called for a “rooftop-first” approach to solar installations in the government's bid to boost renewable energy as part of the UK’s drive towards net-zero. We argued that solar panels should be placed on the rooftops of new homes, commercial buildings, and car parks before using farmland or greenfield sites. This would protect valuable agricultural land and natural spaces while maximising the use of existing infrastructure.

You can read the government response here

Golden rules:

• Brownfield first.
• Grey belt second.
• Affordable homes
• Boost public services and infrastructure.
• Improve genuine green spaces.