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<p>The National Planning Policy Framework maintains a high level of protection for
the Green Belt, and states that local authorities should propose to alter Green Belt
boundaries only where they can demonstrate that there are exceptional circumstances
and that they have examined all other reasonable options for meeting their identified
development needs. They are expected to show that they have been using their brownfield
and under-used land; optimising density; and exploring opportunities in neighbouring
authority areas under the duty to cooperate. In examining local plans, a planning
inspector will look for evidenced justification of any proposed change to a Green
Belt, to check that all reasonable alternatives have been considered.</p><p>In line
with our manifesto commitment, the reform proposals in <em>Planning for the Future</em>,
currently out for consultation, do not affect the Framework’s strong protections for
Green Belt land.</p>
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