Preserving the Charm: The Role of Green Belt in Epsom's Property Market

Fri 10 Nov 2023

In the ever-expanding tapestry of urban development, the green belt stands as a crucial guardian, particularly in regions like Epsom. As one of the key pillars of town planning policy, the green belt plays a vital role in preventing urban sprawl, preserving the picturesque countryside, and channeling development towards the most sustainable locations.

The Green Belt's Vital Statistics

Between 2013 and 2021, the green belt in England witnessed a marginal reduction from 16,390 to 16,140 square kilometers. However, the year 2021/22 marked a significant turn of events with the first major expansion in recent years—an impressive 269 square kilometer extension aimed at protecting Morpeth in Northumberland. This strategic move reflects the ongoing commitment to balancing urban development with the preservation of our natural landscapes.

Real Estate Dynamics

In the midst of this broader landscape, of the 347,000 properties sold in England this year, a noteworthy 5,000 were situated in the green belt. Moreover, at least 21 large developments are currently underway within green belt land, ranging from garden villages to retirement communities and urban extensions.

The Human Touch: Over a Million Residents in the Green Belt

A little over one million people are living in a green belt area and with this comes the peace of mind that local new developments will be limited and well thought out. Over 2,000 small towns and villages are surrounded by green belt, providing them with protected countryside.
 

Source: #Dataloft, DLUHC, Land Registry, Dataloft, Census 2021

In conclusion, the green belt is not merely a zoning policy; it is a commitment to sustainable growth and the preservation of the distinctive character of Epsom. As the real estate landscape evolves, we can take pride in knowing that our community is part of a thoughtful and deliberate approach to development, ensuring that Epsom remains a cherished place to call home.