Richard Drax, the MP for South Dorset, today welcomed the news that the coalition government is giving councils and communities immediate powers to prevent the destructive practice of 'garden grabbing'and to decide what types of homes are suitable for their area.
For years the wishes of local people have been ignored as the character of neighbourhoods and gardens have been destroyed, robbing communities of vital green space.
Richard said: ‘We are changing the classification of garden land so councils and communities no longer have their decisions constantly overruled, but have the power to work with industry to shape future development that is appropriate for their area.’
‘I am delighted that the coalition government is acting in this way and so promptly. There are many examples of garden grabbing in South Dorset, which have caused some concern and even distress to neighbours who suddenly find an adjacent parcel of green land turned into concrete and stone.’
‘This is just the start of wholescale reform we want to make to the planning system, so councils and communities are centre-stage in a reformed system that works for them.’