THE future of greenfield land in Hertfordshire is to be decided by residents, it was announced this week.

People will be given the chance to comment on Hertfordshire County Council's structure plan, which sets planning and development guidelines for the next ten to 15 years.

They will be asked to choose whether to meet the Government target of 49,000 new homes countywide by developing in towns, on greenfield land or deferring the decision to 2006.

Escalating accommodation needs prompted the council to earmark thousands of Green Belt sites, including two in Watford, for the future construction of homes in a recent housing capacity study.

However, the two green plots in Sheepcot Lane and on land adjacent to Leveret Close have now been excluded from future development plans, pending the outcome of the consultation.

Councillor Iris Tarry, executive member for environment, said: "We've got a massive consultation programme planned and we're happy to explain the options and listen to what people have to say anywhere in the county.

"The key issue is how to accommodate 49,000 homes in the county by 2016.

"And to do it in a way which protects the countryside, the character of our towns and takes into account the need to provide affordable homes.

"We are confident that there is enough housing land to meet all our needs up until at least 2011 without major greenfield development.

"That's why we are recommending a 'plan, monitor, manage' option in line with Government policy."

June 20, 2002 16:30