HC Deb 18 March 1998 vol 308 c652W
12. Mr. Edwards

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on developments on green-field sites in Wales. [33438]

Mr. Win Griffiths

We place great importance on the need to encourage and promote more sustainable patterns of development. Appropriate guidance is already in place. "Planning Guidance (Wales): Planning Policy of 1996" stresses that full and effective use should be made of land within existing urban areas. The use of appropriate vacant land within urban areas can assist regeneration and relieve pressure for development on greenfield sites.

Green Belts can prevent urban sprawl and assist in urban regeneration. I have written to Welsh authorities encouraging them to give serious consideration to Green Belt creation and propose to ask for a progress report.

Mrs. Betty Williams

To ask the Secretary of State for Wales if he will make a statement on developments on greenfield sites in Wales. [33453]

Mr. Win Griffiths

We place great importance on the need to encourage and promote more sustainable patterns of development. Appropriate guidance is already in place. "Planning Guidance (Wales): Planning Policy of 1996" stresses that full and effective use should be made of land within existing urban areas. The use of appropriate vacant land within urban areas can assist regeneration and relieve pressure for development on greenfield sites.