18.09.19
Government awards £2m to prevent illegal greenbelt development
Housing minister Esther McVey has announced £2m funding to “ensure the UK greenbelt remains untouched and protected” by preventing illegal greenbelt development.
The funding will be shared across 37 areas of the UK, with councils receiving the funds able to spend the money how they see fit – though one government suggestion has been to use it to hire a greater number of enforcement officers to tackle illegal traveller sites, car parks and residential encroachment onto protected land.
Bradford Council have been awarded £50,000 as part of the funding scheme.
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Ms McVey said: “The public in the Bradford district have told us loud and clear they want it kept Greenbelt for future generations to enjoy.
“The funding announced will help councils to be vigilant against rogue developers, giving the areas with the highest levels of Green Belt the funds needed to throw the book at those who build illegally.”
A spokesperson for Bradford Council added: “We welcome this funding and the Council’s Planning Service will now be firming up proposals to use the money to assist planning enforcement in green belt areas of the district.”