UK Government Pushes Forward with Plan to Build 1.5 Million Homes, Redefines Green Belt Rules
Labour introduces mandatory housing targets and green belt reforms to address the housing crisis, drawing criticism from environmentalists and local councils.
- The UK Government has set a target of building 370,000 homes annually, aiming for 1.5 million new homes by the end of this parliament.
- Councils are now required to review green belt boundaries, with a focus on developing 'grey belt' land deemed to have limited environmental value.
- A 'brownfield first' strategy prioritizes previously developed sites, but officials acknowledge these will not suffice to meet housing demands.
- Critics, including environmentalists and local councils, warn the reforms could harm ecosystems and strain infrastructure in rural areas.
- Labour has pledged £100 million and 300 additional planning officers to support councils in implementing the updated planning framework.
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