Public misunderstanding of Green Belt policy 'holding back vital housing development'

In fact, Government advice on Green Belt policy outlines five main purposes, which includes assisting in urban regeneration by recycling derelict land. This is in addition to other policy goals such as checking the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas, safeguarding the countryside and preventing neighbouring towns from merging into one another.

C|T Group said a lack of understanding of the broader aims of Green Belt policy is affecting housing development efforts.

Its survey of more than 1,200 people found those who incorrectly defined "Green Belt” as protecting countryside and green fields were significantly more likely to support its protection, with a net +51 preferring to protect the “green belt” around major cities, even if it means there are fewer houses, and they are more expensive.

In contrast, among those with a more accurate understanding of the term Green Belt as “a way to stop our towns and cities sprawling” opposition to its development halved.

John Walker, Head of UK and Europe Real Estate and Infrastructure at C|T Group, said greater efforts are needed by developers and policymakers to explain what Green Belt policies actually are.

“A significant proportion of the Green Belt includes brownfield land that can be redeveloped to meet housing need,” he said.

"It is about time Green Belt was better defined or the term replaced altogether to avoid the public perception that green belt policy is directed at protecting green fields.”

Paul Brocklehurst, Chairman of Land Promoters & Developers Federation, added: “This insightful and myth-busting research can act as an essential step towards solving the housing crisis.

"When empowered with knowledge and understanding, the majority of the public embrace sustainable development.

"These research findings reinforce our belief that the public can become invaluable partners in shaping the future of developments”.

The biggest group of supporters for new housing among those surveyed came from those currently living in the rented sector.

Of the 4.4 million renters in England, 73 per cent wish to own a house

within the next five years.

However, eight out of 10 renters feel priced out of the market.

A C|T Group spokesperson said of the organisation’s research: “When presented with an accurate definition and asked whether they would allow more housing to be built on green belt land, only 15 per cent of the total state there should be no development on “Green Belt” land, suggesting that correct information dissemination could lead to a positive shift in public sentiment.”