As part of the Labour government’s new planning reform, there was talk yesterday (Tuesday) about development on ‘grey belt’ land.
OnTheWight understands from council leader, Phil Jordan, that no view has yet been formed on which land on the Isle of Wight would be designated as ‘grey belt’, but he did confirm that local plans (like the Island Plan) would be mandatory. Read our earlier article about housing targets.
50% of affordable housing
As part of the planning policy reform, the government say,
“If local authorities can’t meet their housing targets, they will need to look to brownfield land in the green belt and their grey belt, prioritising land near stations and existing settlements.
“Grey belt sites will only be built on if they meet the Government’s ‘golden rules’ that half of homes are affordable, the plans enhance the local environment and the necessary infrastructure is in place, such as schools and GP surgeries.”
Isle of Wight grey belt
Councillor Jordan also confirmed that local authorities would be able to review their green belt, but not to take away any existing classifications such as Isle of Wight National Landscape (formally the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), for example.
Modernised rules for planning committees
The council leader told OnTheWight that there will be modernised rules for planning committees (which could involve national accreditation for committee members).
He added that changes are coming to allow local authorities to more easily compulsory purchase properties and land as well as changes on Right to Buy.
