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Brownfield land register

Previously developed land is known as brownfield land.

It can include land with buildings as well as cleared sites.

For more information see the National Planning Policy Framework [external link].

The register and map show brownfield land identified as suitable for housing development. It also shows which sites have planning permission.

To include a site in the register it must meet the following criteria:

  • The site must be previously developed land.
  • The site must be at least 0.25 hectares in size or capable of supporting at least 5 dwellings (suitable).
  • The site must be expected to come forward for development in the next 15 years (achievable).
  • The site is considered available if the owner or developer of the site has expressed an interest to sell or develop the land 21 days before its entry on the register.
  • The local planning authority must consider there to be no ownership or legal issues to prevent development (available).

The register and planning permission

Inclusion in the register does not mean that planning permission has been granted.

Inclusion on the register does not give any extra weight or status to any planning permission applications.

Sites already allocated for development can still be included in the register.

Sites can also be included if they already have planning permission or permission in principle for residential development.

We are required to develop and keep the brownfield land register up to date. We review the register at least once every year.

The register is available to the public. This increases transparency for developers and communities. It also helps encourage investment in the local area.

The government is committed to having planning permission in place on 90% of suitable brownfield land by 2020.

The register allows the government to measure progress against its commitment.

Permission in principle

Permission in principle helps us give permission for new homes on suitable brownfield sites.

We may use brownfield registers as part of granting permission in principle for housing on suitable brownfield sites.

Permission in principle sits alongside the standard planning permission application process and local development orders.

We have not granted any sites permission in principle.

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