The Leader of Hertsmere Council has set out our position in response to the government’s changes to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).

Speaking at a Full Council meeting on Wednesday, 24 January, our leader, Cllr Jeremy Newmark, said:“We welcome the changes to the National Planning Policy Framework, as these support and reinforce our position in relation to the Green Belt as we move forward with a Revised Draft Local Plan for Hertsmere.

“These reforms do not change our policy regarding development on Green Belt land. The standard method for assessing housing need remains the starting point for consideration in setting our housing target.

“We are continuing to thoroughly assess any possible implications as we draft a new Local Plan. However, we strongly believe that the approach agreed by this council, in November last year, is entirely consistent with the updated NPPF.

“We are looking forward to hearing our residents’ and businesses’ views when we hold a public consultation on our new draft local plan in the spring. As a council, we are absolutely committed to transparency and, as such, we will make these NPPF changes clear in the draft local plan and show their impact, or lack of impact, on our borough.”