Residents in Hitchin & Harpenden have expressed concern to me over housing numbers and developments proposed in the current greenbelt in Local Plans. Greenbelt exists to protect our rural communities and it is important that significant development in the greenbelt only happens where it is necessary for local housing need. This week I wrote to the Secretary of State for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (whose Department includes the Planning Inspectorate) what action the Government is taking to ensure that Local Plans meet this expectation.
