Under the revised National Planning Policy Framework (December 2024) and updated Planning Practice Guidance (February 2025), the classification of a settlement as a village or town now directly affects how Green Belt protections are applied. This is particularly relevant to the emerging concept of “Grey Belt” land—areas within the Green Belt that may be considered suitable for development due to lower environmental or strategic value.
Solihull Council is proposing to reclassify Knowle, Dorridge, Bentley Heath, and Balsall Common as towns, but Hockley Heath remains classified as a village. This distinction matters.
Land surrounding towns is more likely to retain Green Belt protection, while land around villages may be more vulnerable to development pressures.
The survey will close on Monday 25 August 2025.
