This month we have seen Sevenoaks District Council publish the local plan, which sets out how they will meet the Government’s mandatory target of 17,175 homes over the next 15 years (a 63% increase on the previous target).
In my view, the council faces an impossible situation: if they do not include “Grey Belt” sites for consultation, the plan will almost certainly be rejected by the Government’s Planning Inspectorate, and control of the plan could be taken out of local hands entirely.
This situation is entirely the result of Labour’s determination to concrete over our countryside, even as they reduce the housing target for Greater London. During the General Election, the Prime Minister promised to prioritise “ugly, disused grey belt land” for development — pointing to a derelict garage in Tottenham as an example. In reality, Labour’s redefinition of “Grey Belt” includes some of our most beautiful countryside. For example, land between Dunton Green and Otford — is now classed as Grey Belt and at risk of nearly 1,800 new homes across three sites.
Yes, we need more homes — but they must be built in the right places, with the right infrastructure, and with the support of local communities. That’s why I have supported the 950-home development on the Quarry site. Instead, the Government is forcing through plans that will see our green spaces lost forever, showing the same disregard for rural life that they have already shown to farmers.
This is an absolute disgrace. What is in the consultation document is not the fault of Sevenoaks District Council — it is the direct result of Labour’s reckless approach to planning.
I, and my Conservative colleagues in parliament will continue to make the case for this madcap vandalism of our countryside to be stopped before it is too late. And I will continue to stand up for the interests of residents, and voice their concerns, throughout this process.
As ever, if you wish to discuss anything with me, please do not hesitate to get in touch at [email protected].
Laura Trott
MP for Sevenoaks and SwanleyTo see Laura's newsletter in full click here