Many residents will be aware of the proposed development on land south of Shenley Hill, Radlett.

One of the great pleasures of living in our part of Hertfordshire is the countryside right on our doorstep. I grew up enjoying the green fields around Radlett and still value the space, freedom and character they provide. This countryside is what makes our towns and villages special places to live. Of course, we need more homes for our children and grandchildren, but this must not come at the expense of what makes our area unique. 

Since I was first elected, protecting our local green spaces has been one of my main priorities, and I remain committed to that cause.

The Shenley Hill site is one developers have tried to build on since 2022, with thousands of residents objecting. Fairfax Acquisitions Ltd previously had a planning application rejected by Hertsmere Borough Council and the Planning Inspectorate, partly because it was an inappropriate and harmful development in the Green Belt. That decision was widely welcomed. 

Following Labour’s election to government, reforms I lobbied for that protected green spaces were reversed. In particular, Green Belt land has been redesignated as so-called “grey belt”, which is now being used to justify building on our countryside.

Despite making no substantial changes, the developers resubmitted plans for 195 homes. Although officers redesignated the site as “grey belt”, I was pleased that the Council refused the application.

Unfortunately, Fairfax has now appealed. A Public Inquiry will open on Tuesday 3 February at the Council offices and is scheduled to last four days, with the public able to attend.

I have contacted the Planning Inspectorate opposing the proposal, raising the harm it would cause to our area. Once open countryside is lost, it is gone forever. 

I want to reassure residents that I will continue to stand up for our Green Belt.