New housebuilding targets revealed

East Herts has been set an annual housebuilding target of 1,173 following the government's recent announcement of reforms to the planning system.

The new figure represents a 13% uplift over the target set by the previous government.

To meet the target, East Herts Council might have to review green belt designations, identifying and prioritising 'grey belt' land, which includes land on the edge of existing settlements or roads, as well as [for example] old petrol stations and car parks.   

The release of Green Belt land will be subject to "golden rules" which make clear that development should deliver 50% affordable homes, increase access to green spaces and put the necessary infrastructure in place, such as schools and GP surgeries.  

The measures are part of a new draft National Planning Policy Framework which is currently open for consultation until 24th September 2024.

The District Council is in the early stages of reviewing its local plan, inviting landowners and stakeholders to volunteer sites for development.

Three large housebuilding sites identified in the current local plan adopted in 2018 have still not been developed - the former gas works in Marshgate Drive, land north of Welwyn Road, and a site north of Bengeo.

With a total of 5,538 new homes to be built annually in Hertfordshire, County council leader Cllr Richard Roberts has expressed concern about pressures on the Green Belt and local infrastructure, highlighting the need for investment in hospitals, healthcare, schools and roads that would be needed for the increased population:

"We want to grow our economy, Hertfordshire and the South East is the nation’s economic power house, after London.

"But our infrastructure is creaking, our hospitals are not fit for purpose, our highways are just about coping, no more.

"There has to be room for a dialogue with government to find the right levels of development and investment to drive our economy and house our residents without overwhelming our county."

East Herts District Council has been approached for comment.

Updated to include reaction from HCC leader.