Surge in brownfield development continues

More new homes than ever before are being built on previously-developed sites as the Government continues its push for brownfield land use.


According to statistics released by the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister this week arecord level, almost three quarters (72%), of new housing now being built is on brownfield land.

This compares with just 56% in 1997 and 70% at the last count six months ago (see related story).

The steady increase in brownfield development will be welcomed by those working in the land remediation sector as a growing number of opportunities present themselves.

Meanwhile housing density has remained on an even keel since the last count at an average of 40 dwellings per hectare (DPH), though again that has seen a dramatic increase since 1997 when the figure was 25DPH.

While living in more closely packed communities might not be to everybody’s taste the Government is keen to see the average DPH increase as it means available land is being used more efficiently.

Minister for Planning and Housing Yvette Cooper said she welcomed the new figures: “We are building more new homes on brownfield sites than ever before.

“For decades, this country has built too few homes, with the result that too many people on moderate incomes are being priced out of the housing market.

“Today’s statistics show it is possible reverse that trend and build more homes in the right places whilst protecting the environment and providing jobs and public services at the same time.

“We are committed to making the best use of previously developed land and these latest figures show we are doing exactly that.”

Full details of the figures can be found by clicking here or following the link to the ODPM website.

By Sam Bond

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