A Practical Guide to Securing Planning Permission on Grey Belt Land in the Green Belt

The Government's new Grey Belt policy is the most significant innovation in Green Belt policy in the past 70 years. This book examines how the policy supports grants of permission on qualifying land, ahead/outside of the plan-making process.

The book is in two parts:

Part I set out the general framework, including the history of Grey Belt policy and its role within wider Green Belt policy and planning legislation. Individual chapters then provide general practical advice for planning applications, planning appeals and High Court challenges.

Part II then examines the policy text in greater detail. Each of the four Criteria (NPPF 155a-d) are considered individually. Part II also considers Very Special Circumstances as a fallback position.

The book will be of use to all those promoting development on Grey Belt land in the Green Belt and those making decisions upon applications.

THE GENERAL FRAMEWORK

What is Grey Belt Policy?

History and Development of Grey Belt Policy

Decision-Taking Context

Plan-Making Context

Planning Applications

Planning Statements and Other Documents

Planning Appeals

Judicial Review and Statutory Review

THE POLICY TESTS

Green Belt Purpose A, B, D

Previously Developed Land

"Strong Reason for Refusal" Policies

All Green Belt Purposes Across the Whole Plan Area

Demonstrable Unmet Need

Sustainable Location

Golden Rules: Affordable Housing, Necessary Infrastructure, Publicly Accessible Greenspace

Very Special Circumstances as a Reserve Position

The Presumption in Favour of Sustainable Development

Conclusions and Future Reforms