Residential density up but brownfield development rate falters

In 2007 the proportion of dwellings built on previously developed land fell by one percentage point compared to the previous year while the density of new residential development rose per four percentage points, according to the latest statistics compiled for Communities and Local Government.

These provisional data indicate that last year some 75 per cent of dwellings were built on previously-developed land (including conversions).

New dwellings were built at an average density of 45 dwellings per hectare. This compares to 41 dwellings per hectare in 2006.

The figures also show that in 2006 some two per cent of dwellings were built within the designated Green Belt while during the same 12 months five per cent of land changing to residential use was within the Green belt. Those figures are unchanged from 2005.

A spokesperson for Communities and Local Government said: "Latest statistics show it is possible to build the homes future generations need while protecting the environment and green spaces and preventing urban sprawl.

"Nationally, the amount of Green Belt land continues to grow, with a 33,000 hectare increase since 1997. Building on brownfield will remain our clear priority. Our target is being substantially exceeded with the overwhelming majority of homes being built on Brownfield. We will continue to work closely with councils and housebuilders to maintain this trend, which has seen new housing built on brownfield land rise from 56 per cent in 1997 to 75 per cent in 2007."

Other land use change data just published indicated that the proportion of development located within areas of high flood risk is rising. In 2006 some 10 per cent of dwellings were built there. In 2006 some seven per cent of land changing to residential use was within areas of high flood risk. This compares to nine and six per cent in 2005.

Download the Land Use Change Statistics (England) 2007 – provisional estimates

Roger Milne

5 June 2008