Understanding the Government’s New Approach to Green Belt

The UK government has introduced a new framework for Green Belt planning, redefining how land is assessed and categorised for potential development. A key change is the introduction of the concept of "Grey Belt", which recognises that not all land within the Green Belt serves the same purpose or requires the same level of protection. Here’s what this means and why it matters.

The Shift in Green Belt Policy

For decades, Green Belt land has been strictly protected. However, housing pressures and the need for other strategic land uses have prompted a shift in policy. The revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) published last December, and more detailed guidance published last week in updated Planning Policy Guidance introduce the approach to assessment of land in the Green Belt. This new approach allows local authorities to differentiate between land that remains critical to Green Belt purposes and land that could be reclassified as Grey Belt—a category where controlled, sustainable development may be appropriate.

What is ‘Grey Belt’ and Why Does it Matter?

Grey Belt’ is a new term that applies to some of the land within the Green Belt that does not make a strong contribution to some of the purposes of the Green Belt. This might include land:  Partially enclosed by development, reducing its openness.  Near existing settlements, where expansion could be more sustainable.  * Affected by urban influences, such as transport hubs or infrastructure. By formally recognising Grey Belt, the Government aims to strike a balance between protecting the most valuable Green Belt and addressing housing shortages and other critical development needs.

How is Green Belt Land Now Assessed?

1. Local Authorities Must Conduct Green Belt Reviews Councils are required to review Green Belt boundaries as part of local plan development. These assessments will now include a detailed analysis of how strongly different parcels of land contribute to Green Belt objectives.  2. New Criteria for Green Belt Contribution  Land will be assessed based on its effectiveness in achieving the purposes a), b) and c) of the Green Belt, including:  a) Preventing unrestricted sprawl of large urban areas (strongly contributing land remains protected).  b) Preventing neighbouring towns from merging.  d) Preserving the setting of historic towns (land contributing to a town’s historic character remains safeguarded).  3. Granular Assessments Replace Broad Area Reviews  Instead of evaluating Green Belt land in large sections, councils must conduct detailed, site-specific assessments. This allows authorities to pinpoint areas where development could be justified without harming the wider Green Belt.

What This Means for Development and Planning

1. Housing and Infrastructure Decisions Will Be More Flexible  Developers and planners will see a more "nuanced approach" to Green Belt planning, where some land within the Green Belt can be considered for development without requiring a full boundary review.  However, where land major development is taken forward it must comply to a series of ‘Golden Rules’ requiring appropriate provision for affordable housing, necessary improvements to national or local infrastructure and provision of new or improvements to accessible green spaces.

2. Grey Belt Does Not Automatically Mean Development Approval  While land classified as Grey Belt may be suitable for development, it is not automatically removed from the Green Belt. Each planning proposal will still be judged on its sustainability, impact, and compliance with local policies.3. Stronger Protection for High-Value Green Belt Areas  By distinguishing between higher-value and lower-value Green Belt, areas that strongly serve Green Belt purposes will be better protected, ensuring that development would be directed to less sensitive locations.4. Green Belt Reviews Will Impact Local PlansCouncils must now re-evaluate existing Green Belt studies to determine if they are still valid. If a review is outdated, a fresh assessment will be required before making planning decisions.

What to Watch for Next

Local authorities will start revising their Green Belt assessments, meaning more Grey Belt land could emerge in the coming years.  Developers will need to provide strong evidence that their proposals align with the sustainability principles outlined in the NPPF as well as comply with the ‘Golden Rules’.  Public consultations on Green Belt planning may increase, as councils balance growth pressures with environmental and community concerns. 

Final Thoughts: A Pragmatic Approach to Green Belt Planning

The new guidance refines the protection of the Green Belt. By acknowledging that not all Green Belt land serves the same purpose, the Government is encouraging a more strategic approach to development. This policy shift could lead to new housing opportunities, but only where careful planning, sustainability, and minimal impact on openness can be demonstrated.For councils, planners, and developers, the challenge will be ensuring that the right land is released for the right reasons, while safeguarding the integrity of the UK’s cherished Green Belt.