NPPF December 2024: Housing Targets Restored and Grey Belt Introduced
The revised NPPF published December 2024 restores mandatory housing targets, introduces a new grey belt land category, and strengthens requirements for beautiful and well-designed places.
The Government published a revised National Planning Policy Framework in December 2024, the most significant planning policy overhaul in several years.
Mandatory Housing Targets Reinstated
Local planning authorities must use Government-set housing targets as the basis for planning. Councils that relied on locally-derived figures must revert to the standard method.
Grey Belt: A New Land Category
The NPPF introduces grey belt — previously developed land within the Green Belt, or Green Belt land that makes a limited contribution to the five purposes. Grey belt land may be brought forward for development subject to golden rules including 50% affordable housing.
Golden Rules for Green Belt Release
- Minimum 50% affordable housing
- Infrastructure improvements (schools, transport, GP surgeries)
- Accessible green space
Design Quality Requirements
Local Design Codes (now mandatory for LPAs) will set context-specific design standards. Architects should engage early with Design Codes to understand local expectations.