Written question asked by Harry Cohen (Labour) on Tuesday, 27 February 2007, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 1 March 2007. It was answered by Yvette Cooper (Labour) on Wednesday, 21 March 2007 on behalf of the Department for Communities and Local Government.

Greenbelt: M25

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government what recent representations she has received on the creation of a green arc around the M25 motorway; and if she will make a statement.

Answer: At present, we are not aware of any specific recent representations on this matter as public consultation is still under way on the Secretary of State’s Proposed Changes to the Draft East of England Plan. But this is an issue where we would expect the public to express an interest in.The Proposed Changes are that ““areas and networks of green infrastructure should be identified, created, protected and managed to ensure that an improved and healthy environment is available for the benefit of present and future communities””. Assets of particular regional significance proposed for the retention, provision and enhancement of green infrastructure include green infrastructure projects around the fringes of Greater London.Public consultation on the Proposed Changes ran until 9 March. The Secretary of State will then consider the representations received.

Secondary information