§ Mr. SoamesTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment, Transport and the Regions what are the objectives of the Government's policies for the Green Belt. [24172]
§ Mr. PrescottThe Government are committed to the Green Belt and our policy remains as set out in Planning Policy Guidance note 2 (PPG2). The fundamental aim of Green Belt policy is to prevent urban sprawl by keeping land permanently open for as far ahead as can reasonably be foreseen. The protection of Green Belts must be maintained as far as can be seen ahead, although local planning authorities may propose alterations to Green Belt boundaries in exceptional circumstances.