Clampdown on plot land schemes urged

English councils have been urged to take "swift action" on so-called plot land developments, particularly in designated Green Belt and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

This call has come from the Local Government Association, which has just issued new guidance on how to tackle the problems posed by some of the activities of landbanking companies.

Specifically, the report refers to the practice of buying up farmland, often in protected or Green Belt areas, dividing it into plots and selling it to the general public who are given the impression that planning policy may change and the landowners could make windfalls from future development.

Councils have been advised to make use of available legislation, including Article 4 notices, to stop fences being erected to mark plots.

The LGA guidance has highlighted the need for councils to offer impartial planning advice on development prospects.

Planning authorities have also been recommended to monitor the activities of landbanking companies and to inform trading standard departments or the Department of Trade and Industry of "misleading or illegal trading practices".

Councillor David Sparks, chair of the LGA's Environment Board, said: "In numerous cases, plots of protected land have been ruined by stakes being driven into the ground to mark out plots. Councils should use all powers at their disposal to protect rural land, particularly in the Green Belt and AONBs."

He added: "These companies may not be breaking the law but anyone thinking of buying these plots of land should call their local planning department so they can get independent and impartial advice."

In April, the DTI took action to wind up United Land Holdings.

Recently, a number of district councils have served Article 4 stop notices, including Braintree, Chiltern, Huntingdonshire, Mole Valley and South Lakeland.

View the LGA press release here.

View related news 'Land deal clamp down' here.

Roger Milne

4 May 2006