Overview

• Councils will gain powers to buy Green Belt land at agricultural prices to build 1.5 million homes by 2030.
• Landowners refusing to sell could face compulsory purchase orders at benchmark values lower than market rates.
• The policy aims to tackle the housing crisis, especially in high-demand areas like London and the South East.
• The government emphasizes a 'brownfield-first' approach but acknowledges Green Belt development is necessary.
• Critics argue the move undermines protections for Green Belt land and benefits private developers.