Written question asked by Peter Luff (Conservative), in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Wednesday, 16 October 1996. It was answered by Paul Beresford (Conservative) on Wednesday, 16 October 1996 on behalf of the Department of the Environment.

Dept of the Environment

Question: What priority he attaches to the achievement of sustainable patterns of development and the maintenance of long-term green belt boundaries as set out in PPG 13 and PPG 2 when he considers local plans as they relate to the green belt.

Answer: Mr. Luff: To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what priority he attaches to the achievement of sustainable patterns of development and the maintenance of long-term green belt boundaries as set out in PPG13 and PPG2 when he considers local plans as they relate to the green belt; and if he will make a statement. [41056] Sir Paul Beresford: The fundamental aim of green belt policy is to prevent urban sprawl. Green belts can assist in moving towards more sustainable patterns of development. Their boundaries should be altered only in exceptional circumstances. PPG2 advises on the possible need to safeguard land for longer-term development needs, taking account of sustainable development, and on relating such land to public transport infrastructure. The Secretary of State examines development plans carefully to identify whether their scope reflects national and regional planning guidance and whether there are conflicts which do not appear to be justified by local circumstances. If necessary, he will make a formal intervention.

Secondary information