July 14, 2010
The government has pledged to protect gardens across the UK from major constructions by introducing new ‘garden grabbing’ legislation.
Previously, councils and local communities voiced their concerns over a string of new developments set up in gardens, possible because of their Brownfield classification.
As gardens were considered ‘residential land', opportunities to develop homes and properties were similar to those given to factories and disused railway sidings lots, maintained under the Brownfield category.
But under the new legislation, councils and communities are being given immediate powers to prevent the destructive practice of garden grabbing and to decide what types of homes are suitable for their area, Decentralisation Minister Greg Clark announced.
"For years the wishes of local people have been ignored as the character of neighbourhoods and gardens have been destroyed, robbing communities of vital green space,” claimed Mr Clark.
"It is ridiculous that gardens have until now been classified in the same group as derelict factories and disused railway sidings, forcing councils and communities to sit by and watch their neighbourhoods get swallowed up in a concrete jungle.
"Today I am changing the classification of garden land so councils and communities no longer have their decisions constantly overruled, but have the power to work with industry to shape future development that is appropriate for their area.
Mr Clark stated that the new legislation is “just the start of wholesale reform” of the nation’s planning system. Housing Minister Grant Sharps has offered his support to the changes, adding that the system will allow communities to make their “own decisions”.
Developers with existing ‘garden deals’ have been told to check with their local planning offices over possible consequences. Ultimately, any impact will depend on what purpose the land is intended for.
