Sadiq Khan Voices Worries Over Developers ‘Landbanking’ London’s Green Belt
Sadiq Khan expresses concern over developers hoarding green belt land in London, anticipating rule changes that could allow for development.
London, UK, Sadiq Khan, Green Belt, Housing Crisis, Developers
London: Sir Sadiq Khan is worried that developers are snapping up parts of the green belt, hoping the rules will change soon. He thinks this could lead to more building on these protected lands.
The government is looking to reclassify some “low quality” green belt areas, calling them ‘grey belt’ to allow new homes. This has raised eyebrows, especially for those who value the green spaces.
During a recent Mayor’s Question Time, Sadiq emphasized the need to focus on brownfield sites first. He believes that should be the priority for tackling the housing crisis, and it seems the new government agrees.
City Hall is also seeking government funding to review London’s green belt. They want to find out where potential grey belt areas could be, so they can plan development strategically.
Thomas Turrell, a Tory member of the London Assembly, pointed out that many housing projects in Bromley have fallen behind since 2019. He’s worried that developers are just waiting for the green belt rules to loosen up.
In response, Sadiq acknowledged the concern without naming any developers. He mentioned that some might be buying green belt land, expecting its value to skyrocket if planning policies change.
He used the term ‘landbanking’ to describe this situation, which he feels is quite fitting. Sadiq reiterated that focusing on brownfield sites is the best way forward.
When pressed about the government’s plans, he assured that he doesn’t want to create a free-for-all for developers in the green belt. He stressed the importance of these areas for the city’s residents.
Last September, a spokesperson from the Ministry of Housing acknowledged the housing crisis and emphasized the need for all areas, including London, to contribute by building homes. They also recognized the green belt’s role in preventing urban sprawl.
They want to ensure that high-quality green belt land isn’t downgraded to meet grey belt criteria. Sadiq mentioned that the upcoming review could identify grey belt locations that don’t serve the green belt’s main purposes.
He concluded by saying that any developments should benefit Londoners, especially those on housing waiting lists or struggling to afford to live in the city.