Bob Neill MP has written to the local newspapers setting out the Government's position on Green Belt protection. In the letter, Bob makes it clear that the Coalition Government has no intention of weakening its commitment to the Green Belt. This is in line with its desire to secure sustainable development that addresses peoples’ social, economic and environmental needs.
The letter, sent on 4th July 2011, reads as follows:
Dear Sir –
In a London Borough like Bromley, the Green Belt plays a valuable role in stopping urban sprawl and providing a green lung around our built-up areas. For this reason, it is worth emphasising that the Government has absolutely no intention of weakening its commitment to the Green Belt and that the Coalition Agreement’s unequivocal promise to maintain Green Belt protection still stands.
What we are doing is consolidating thousands of pages of unwieldy Whitehall planning policy guidance into a clearer single document. This will make the planning system far more understandable and accessible for all.
This new framework will allow for the creation of the new homes, jobs, and businesses people want in our area, while at the same time safeguarding the protection of our green spaces for current and future generations.
Reform of the planning system is essential, but it will not be at the expense of the environment.
Bob Neill
Member of Parliament for Bromley & Chislehurst
Planning Minister