HC Deb 08 December 1976 vol 922 cc229-30W
Mr. Durant

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment what is the total extent of green belt land designated and approved in England and Wales.

Mr. Guy Barnett

About 10 per cent. of the land area of England and Wales.

Mr. Durant

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment how many acres of land were added to the approved green belt between 1970 and 1974 and since 1974.

Mr. Guy Barnett

The principal additions to green belt between 1970 and 1974 were in the South-East and West Midlands where green belt policies were extended over approximately 2,000 square miles. These additions are being reviewed as county planning authorities draw up structure plans. Six of these have been approved in the West Midlands Region since 1974.

Mr. Durant

asked the Secretary of State for the Environment which designated green belts are at present under consideration for approval.

Mr. Guy Barnett

Green belt proposals in the North-West Region and south Hampshire were submitted in old style development plans, and green belt policies have been reviewed in structure plans submitted in the South-East and West Midlands Regions.