Monday 17th Oct 2016

Business leaders call for a rethink on London Green Belt

Nearly half of London business leaders believe the Government should look again at the classification of poor quality Green Belt with a view to using it for housing.

A new poll by ComRes, commissioned by London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) found 47% of business decision makers support the reclassification of poor quality Green Belt land around London to enable new housing development.

It follows previous research by LCCI which found that London businesses see land availability as the top barrier to house building in London.

Alongside an honest review of the Green Belt, LCCI has called on the Mayor of London to promote increased housing density around transport hubs to make the most out of existing infrastructure rather than relying on private transport.

Chief Executive of LCCI, Colin Stanbridge said:

"The Green Belt originated because of its location, not because of the quality within it.

"The idea of a greenbelt being lush parkland is something of a misnomer. In fact land which is currently classified as in the Green Belt covers a wide range, from parks to derelict buildings on wasteland.

"We would urge consideration to be given to the wider strategic role of land within the Green Belt. LCCI has recommended that the Mayor of London review the status of poor quality Green Belt land, to assess its potential for housing

"Reviewing the status of poor quality greenbelt land will enable the new Mayor to identify opportunities for housing but at the same time protect London's valuable green spaces."


ENDS

Media contact
Katharine McGee
T: +44 (0)20 7203 1897
M: +44 (0)7827 241528
E: kmcgee@londonchamber.co.uk

NOTES TO EDITOR:
1. London Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) is the capital's largest and most representative business organisation, with members ranging in size from multi-national companies to SMEs and sole traders.
2. Colin Stanbridge, chief executive is available for further comment and interview.
3. ComRes surveyed 504 London business decision makers online between 3rd and 31st August 2016. Data was weighted to be representative of all London businesses by company size and broad industry sector. ComRes is a member of the British Polling Council and abides by its rules. Data tables are available at www.comresglobal.com