The new Labour / Lib Dem Council have published their proposals for the new Local Plan. The Local Plan will help shape development in Hertsmere over the next two decades.

I have been determined in my campaign to get the Housing Secretary to look again at its approach to planning in Hertsmere. This resulted in major reforms to the planning system, which will protect against development on green belt land and abolish top-down mandatory housing targets.

In spite of this the Labour/ Lib Dem Local Plan proposes a number of worrying incursions to the Green Belt. The plans are likely to lead to the loss of hundreds of acres of green space.

Once open countryside is lost it is gone forever. Our children and grandchildren will pay the price. Despite repeated promises from the Lib Dems to protect the Green Belt, they have performed a total U-turn.

I would strongly encourage everyone in Hertsmere to submit their own views by responding to the Council’s public consultation. This will launch on 3 April, and remain open for eight weeks, until 29 May. You can do so via this link: www.hertsmere.gov.uk/newlocalplan