Brownfield and greenfield land

Previously developed land or brownfield land is land that is, or was, previously occupied by a permanent structure (excluding agricultural or forestry buildings) and associated fixed surface infrastructure.

The definition also covers the curtilage of the development, that is the area of land attached to a building - including gardens. For a detailed definition see Planning policy guidance 3 - housing.

Greenfield land

Greenfield land is land that has never been built on or where the remains of any structure or activity have blended into the landscape over time. Greenfield land should not be confused with green belt land. Green belt is a term for land around cities and large built-up areas left permanently open or largely undeveloped.

The government target is that by 2008, 60% of additional housing in England should be provided in previously developed land (brownfield land) or by re-using existing buildings. It is expected that at least 99% of housing completions in Wolverhampton in future years will be on previously developed land.

Further information

For more information about brownfield and greenfield land in Wolverhampton contact the Planning Policy and Area Plans team.

Useful Links:

http://www.uklanddirectory.org.uk/brownfield.htm