Lib Dems move to protect green belt from new threat

4.44.38pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 3rd Sep 2007

Liberal Democrats on Sheffield City Council are set to make a proposal at next weeks council meeting which, if accepted, would ensure that Sheffield's green belt is protected. Only recently an independent think tank found that two million homes would have to be built on the green belt and undeveloped countryside in the UK as a result of the Governments new home building plan.

Liberal Democrats have moved to rule out the possibility of any new developments on Sheffield's green belt. Their motion commits the council to protecting the green belt and 'vehemently' opposing development upon it.

The Lib Dem motion would also commit the council to protecting more green space by opposing 'garden grabbing'. This is the practice of developing on private garden space that can lead to the over-development.

Lib Dems believe that an appropriate number of new homes can be built in Sheffield, to deal with affordable housing issues, without encroaching on the green belt. They point to the relatively large amount of brownfield sites available due to Sheffield's industrial past.

Cllr David Baker, Liberal Democrat Shadow Cabinet member for Planning, said: -

"In my opinion one of Sheffield's greatest assets is its green spaces and the surrounding countryside. Given the new threat posed by the Governments building plans this council must do all it can to protect our green belt."

"More homes are needed to address the affordable housing issue. However, this shouldn't be used as an excuse to develop on the green belt. Due to its industrial past Sheffield has a relatively high number of brownfield sites which can be utilised, we can also make better use of existing developed land."

"I hope that our proposal can gain cross-party support next week. It's vital that this council comes together to present a strong and united front in the face of increased pressure to build on our much valued green spaces and countryside."