Basildon Council approves building 1,000 homes on green belt

Basildon Council has approved plans for nearly 1,000 homes, including some on land previously designated as green belt. This decision follows Labour's 2024 planning reforms, which introduced the concept of "grey belt" land for development. The council argues that building on this land will address housing needs and support local growth. Critics, including Tory MP Richard Holden, have condemned the reclassification, calling it a "national scandal" and claiming it undermines the quality of green spaces. In response to concerns, a council spokesperson stated that all planning decisions are rigorously assessed. They also announced the upcoming Green Guarantee Scheme, which will protect green spaces not included in the Local Plan.