The Labour Government's changes to national planning policy are increasing the pressure on councils to identify more land for development, including areas of Green Belt.
That's why it's more important than ever that Solihull's Conservative-led Council has a robust, evidence-based approach.
The publication of the updated Green Belt Assessment is a key part of preparing the borough's new Local Plan and ensuring decisions are based on independent evidence while making the strongest possible case to protect the character of our borough.
Our Green Belt plays a vital role in preventing urban sprawl, protecting our natural environment and preserving the identity of our communities. While councils must work within the planning framework set by Government, Conservatives in Solihull will continue to stand up for residents and seek to protect our Green Belt wherever possible.
Cllr Andy Mackiewicz, Cabinet Member for Climate Change and Planning commented; “This Government policy has been the biggest change to green belt policy since 1955 in that Green Belt applies to towns, not villages. We have worked proactively and got Balsall Common, Knowle, Dorridge and Bentley Heath (KDBH) considered as towns.”
Read more: https://www.solihull.gov.uk/news/2026/solihull-council-publishes-updated-green-belt-assessment
