Sir Oliver Dowden MP has warned the Labour government’s latest planning reforms published today will destroy swathes of pristine Green Belt in Hertsmere.

The proposals in the government's updated National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) introduce a ‘default yes’ presumption for housing developments surrounding railway stations. Under the changes, planning rules would be tilted heavily toward automated approval for developments situated within a designated radius of around 800 metres of railway stations.

He set out his opposition to the proposals when it was announced that they would be consulted on last year. This is in addition to his concerns about Labour’s reforms to planning, which have already placed a burden on the Green Belt.

Analysis suggests that this will mean an additional 218 acres of Green Belt would be affected by these changes.

Oliver said: “I am very worried about the government’s latest planning reforms published today, which will give a ‘default yes’ for developments near railway stations.

“Commuter hubs across Hertsmere, including Radlett, Cuffley, Borehamwood, Potters Bar and Bushey sit directly in the firing line of these changes, putting over 200 acres of our precious Green Belt at risk.

“I will continue to rigorously oppose these ill-thought-through changes that will do so much damage to our area.”