Better planning

Well designed housing using land efficiently. Photo: © CPRE.

Regenerating towns and cities
Successful urban regeneration, through developing brownfield land and a significant ‘greening’ of towns and cities, has been crucial in protecting the countryside. Attitudes to property have changed. Following the crash of 2008-9, the aim of government policy was to create a stable housing market. Over two million high-quality homes have been created since 2009, with many old buildings renovated for housing. But property is no longer seen principally as an investment. Homes are places to live.

Enjoying our green spaces
The Green Belt has played a vital role in safeguarding the countryside and reinvigorating towns and cities. In 2026 there is more Green Belt and it is better protected. At the same time, Green Belt land is more attractive and more accessible, providing an invaluable breathing space for town and city dwellers and supplying them with food.

Related campaigns
> Green Belts
> Housing supply
> Planning system