"Our aim is to preserve as much as possible of the peaceful green and pleasant countryside,
which has been left to us after the ravages of road and building developments."
Ann Goddard, President EBGBS
which has been left to us after the ravages of road and building developments."
Ann Goddard, President EBGBS
May 2025: CPRE Petition to amend definition of 'grey belt'
CPRE Hertfordshire is campaigning for an urgent change in the revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) published in December 2024.
"The specific definition of ‘grey belt’ – as per the revised NPPF – is hugely damaging to the continued existence of the Green Belt in England.
The establishment of the Green Belt, initially to control the unrestricted urban sprawl of London and subsequently applied to other conurbations, is widely regarded as the most successful planning policy since the introduction of the present statutory planning system in 1948. It has had the effect of maintaining open countryside with a host of benefits for both rural and urban communities and for nature and the environment.
But there is an inconsistency between the NPPF paragraphs on the Green Belt and the NPPF glossary definition of ‘grey belt’. This inconsistency could result in the loss of our Green Belt countryside forever as well as habitat loss for wildlife. We want the NPPF ‘grey belt’ definition to be amended so this inconsistency is removed, and Green Belt protections remain in place."
Please click here to read about and sign their petition calling on the Government to amend the definition of so-called ‘grey belt’ land in the Green Belt.
"The specific definition of ‘grey belt’ – as per the revised NPPF – is hugely damaging to the continued existence of the Green Belt in England.
The establishment of the Green Belt, initially to control the unrestricted urban sprawl of London and subsequently applied to other conurbations, is widely regarded as the most successful planning policy since the introduction of the present statutory planning system in 1948. It has had the effect of maintaining open countryside with a host of benefits for both rural and urban communities and for nature and the environment.
But there is an inconsistency between the NPPF paragraphs on the Green Belt and the NPPF glossary definition of ‘grey belt’. This inconsistency could result in the loss of our Green Belt countryside forever as well as habitat loss for wildlife. We want the NPPF ‘grey belt’ definition to be amended so this inconsistency is removed, and Green Belt protections remain in place."
Please click here to read about and sign their petition calling on the Government to amend the definition of so-called ‘grey belt’ land in the Green Belt.
EBGBS AGM
Wednesday 14th May 2025
Allum Lane Hall, Allum Lane, Elstree
Time : 7.00pm for 7.30pm start
Guest Speaker : Mr Simon Braidman,
Head Warden of Stanmore Common Nature Reserve
Allum Lane Hall, Allum Lane, Elstree
Time : 7.00pm for 7.30pm start
Guest Speaker : Mr Simon Braidman,
Head Warden of Stanmore Common Nature Reserve
February 2025: Land North of Barnet Lane, CALA Leaflet
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February 2025 : Articles regarding BESS site
The Times, 17th February 2025
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Countryside Voices, CPRE Spring Summer magazine 2025
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24 March 2025: HBC 'Call for sites’ made after adoption of Local Plan timetable
Press Release by HBC:
We have issued a new ‘call for sites’ following the adoption of an updated Local Plan timetable earlier this month – with a survey now open.
Around 400 landowners, developers, agents and organisations have been contacted, by our planning policy team, to invite the submission for consideration of any sites which may have potential for housing and employment development, and environmental uses including energy and bio-diversity.
This is the next critical step to ensure that the future development of Hertsmere is managed in the most appropriate way, with the council keen to identify all potential brownfield sites within urban areas to support regeneration opportunities within the borough’s key settlements.
In December last year, the Government published a revised version of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) which aims to simplify the planning process, enable new development opportunities and make the delivery of housing, including social and affordable housing, a priority.
The changes mean that, across an 18-year period, the housing target in the borough has increased from just over 13,000 new homes to 18,612, which equates to 1,034 new homes per year – an increase of 43 per cent.
The Local Plan matters to all of the borough’s communities as it maps out the strategy and vision for Hertsmere until at least 2043.
To be eligible for consideration, housing sites should have the potential to accommodate five or more homes or have 500 square metres of floorspace, or 0.25 hectares available for economic development.
The ‘call for sites’ ends on Thursday 24 April 2025 at 5pm, and the survey can also be accessed via our website.
Take part in the survey
We have issued a new ‘call for sites’ following the adoption of an updated Local Plan timetable earlier this month – with a survey now open.
Around 400 landowners, developers, agents and organisations have been contacted, by our planning policy team, to invite the submission for consideration of any sites which may have potential for housing and employment development, and environmental uses including energy and bio-diversity.
This is the next critical step to ensure that the future development of Hertsmere is managed in the most appropriate way, with the council keen to identify all potential brownfield sites within urban areas to support regeneration opportunities within the borough’s key settlements.
In December last year, the Government published a revised version of the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) which aims to simplify the planning process, enable new development opportunities and make the delivery of housing, including social and affordable housing, a priority.
The changes mean that, across an 18-year period, the housing target in the borough has increased from just over 13,000 new homes to 18,612, which equates to 1,034 new homes per year – an increase of 43 per cent.
The Local Plan matters to all of the borough’s communities as it maps out the strategy and vision for Hertsmere until at least 2043.
To be eligible for consideration, housing sites should have the potential to accommodate five or more homes or have 500 square metres of floorspace, or 0.25 hectares available for economic development.
The ‘call for sites’ ends on Thursday 24 April 2025 at 5pm, and the survey can also be accessed via our website.
Take part in the survey
March 2025: Woodcock Hill Village Green Committee Invitation
October 2024: EBGBS object to the BESS planning application
Click here to read the letter sent on behalf of EBGBS regarding the Battery Energy Storage System on 17th October 2024.
October 2024: Woodcock Hill Village Green request to go to Supreme Court rejected
September 2024: Government Consultation on proposed changes to NPPF
Deadline 11.45pm 24/09/2024
The Government have put forward changes to the NPPF (National Planning Policy Framework) to which you can respond. The deadline is 11.45pm on 24th September 2024.
CPRE (campaign for Rural England) have put provided details of the proposed amendments, their response and how a response can be made. Please do respond!
Click here for details
CPRE (campaign for Rural England) have put provided details of the proposed amendments, their response and how a response can be made. Please do respond!
Click here for details
August 2024: Woodcock Hill Village Green - last chance to save it!
We need your help - it will only take you 5 minutes.
We need your help on or before 19th August 2024 to register a statement on the Appeals Casework Portal stating the following:
Statement
I support Hertsmere Borough Council's rejection of the application on the grounds stated on the decision. In addition, the proposed development is an overdevelopment of the site.
The provision of vehicular access is inadequate and poorly positioned involving access into a road that is already congested in busy times and is close to a roundabout which is frequently gridlocked at the height of rush hour.
This can be done via the planning portal as follows (takes 5 minutes) or by sending a written response (see below)
Go to the site : https://acp.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/
Register
Log in
On the Appeals Casework Portal find the 'Search for Case / Submit Representation' box on right of screen
Enter 3346928 in the Application Number
Click 'Search'
Check it is the correct site (postcode WD6 2HB)
Click 'Make Representation"
Save and Continue
Choose 'Interested Party / Person"
Save and Continue
For Acting on Behalf - choose 'No'
Tick 'The box below' and a box will appear
Cut and paste the statement above into the box.
Save and Continue
Confirm you have 'Read the Above'
Submit
You should receive a confirmation on screen and an e-mail confirmation of your submission.
If you cannot use the portal you can cut, paste and send off the following statement with your details included:
I object to the Appeal by DWH Trading Ltd
App/N1920/W/24/3346928
to the Planning Inspectorate against HBC’ decision to reject the planning application
DC/23/0937/OUT.
Site Land at Barnet Lane Borehamwood WD6 2HB
Grid Ref: Easting 520171
Grid Ref: Westing 195569
Name:
Address:
Email:
Phone
I am an interested Party
Statement
I support Hertsmere Borough Council's rejection of the application on the grounds stated on the decision. In addition, the proposed development is an overdevelopment of the site.
The provision of vehicular access is inadequate and poorly positioned involving access into a road that is already congested in busy times and is close to a roundabout which is frequently gridlocked at the height of rush hour.
Regards
Post to: John Legg, The Planning Inspectorate, 3rd Floor Temple Quay House, 2 The Square Bristol, BS1 6PN
Statement
I support Hertsmere Borough Council's rejection of the application on the grounds stated on the decision. In addition, the proposed development is an overdevelopment of the site.
The provision of vehicular access is inadequate and poorly positioned involving access into a road that is already congested in busy times and is close to a roundabout which is frequently gridlocked at the height of rush hour.
This can be done via the planning portal as follows (takes 5 minutes) or by sending a written response (see below)
Go to the site : https://acp.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/
Register
Log in
On the Appeals Casework Portal find the 'Search for Case / Submit Representation' box on right of screen
Enter 3346928 in the Application Number
Click 'Search'
Check it is the correct site (postcode WD6 2HB)
Click 'Make Representation"
Save and Continue
Choose 'Interested Party / Person"
Save and Continue
For Acting on Behalf - choose 'No'
Tick 'The box below' and a box will appear
Cut and paste the statement above into the box.
Save and Continue
Confirm you have 'Read the Above'
Submit
You should receive a confirmation on screen and an e-mail confirmation of your submission.
If you cannot use the portal you can cut, paste and send off the following statement with your details included:
I object to the Appeal by DWH Trading Ltd
App/N1920/W/24/3346928
to the Planning Inspectorate against HBC’ decision to reject the planning application
DC/23/0937/OUT.
Site Land at Barnet Lane Borehamwood WD6 2HB
Grid Ref: Easting 520171
Grid Ref: Westing 195569
Name:
Address:
Email:
Phone
I am an interested Party
Statement
I support Hertsmere Borough Council's rejection of the application on the grounds stated on the decision. In addition, the proposed development is an overdevelopment of the site.
The provision of vehicular access is inadequate and poorly positioned involving access into a road that is already congested in busy times and is close to a roundabout which is frequently gridlocked at the height of rush hour.
Regards
Post to: John Legg, The Planning Inspectorate, 3rd Floor Temple Quay House, 2 The Square Bristol, BS1 6PN
July 2024: HBC respond to Central Government Planning Reforms 30/07/24
Cllr Jeremy Newmark and Cllr Nik Oakley published an article regarding their response to the Planning Reforms and new housing need numbers put forward by the new Labour government on 30th July 2024.
It states "Cllr Nik Oakley, is now reviewing that draft to assess the implications of the proposed changes, which includes an updated housing need number of 959 new homes per year - up from 731".
"Key to our focus will be identifying opportunities to develop on ‘grey belt’ land to meet local housing needs."
Cllr Nik Oakley, added: “We must meet the challenges of delivering the decent and affordable homes that our communities and future generations need and deserve, whilst doing all we can to preserve the rural nature of our countryside.”
EBGBS very much hope they can find a way to build the truly affordable homes Hertsmere need whilst protecting our countryside.
Click here to find out more.
It states "Cllr Nik Oakley, is now reviewing that draft to assess the implications of the proposed changes, which includes an updated housing need number of 959 new homes per year - up from 731".
"Key to our focus will be identifying opportunities to develop on ‘grey belt’ land to meet local housing needs."
Cllr Nik Oakley, added: “We must meet the challenges of delivering the decent and affordable homes that our communities and future generations need and deserve, whilst doing all we can to preserve the rural nature of our countryside.”
EBGBS very much hope they can find a way to build the truly affordable homes Hertsmere need whilst protecting our countryside.
Click here to find out more.
EBGBS at the July 2024 NSPCC Summer Fair
We had a well attended stand at the NSPCC Summer Fair in July. We had the chance to speak to many local residents and Councillors. We also signed up some new members.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to chat with us!
The event, organised by our President Ann Goddard and her team, raised £2,457 for the Charity.
Thank you to everyone who took the time to chat with us!
The event, organised by our President Ann Goddard and her team, raised £2,457 for the Charity.
HBC Councillors Approve Plans to develop Cecils Horse Sanctuary Site
On 11th July 2024 at the HBC Planning Meeting the development to build elderly residence in Elstree Village on the Celics Horse Sanctuary site was almost unanimously approved by Councillors and Planners. Although weight is given to Green Belt, much weight was also given to providing accommodation for the older population. This is in line with HBC's housing targets from Central Government but not in line with rules for Green Belt for which housing does not constitute Very Special Circumstances.
For more details of the plans see Retirement Village Groups website
For more details of the plans see Retirement Village Groups website
Elle Dani Farm - amendment to original plans
Plans to be reviewed at Planning Meeting 11/7/24.
Click here for further details.
Plans to be reviewed at Planning Meeting 11/7/24.
Click here for further details.
Heathbourne Green - Land South Of Elstree Road And East Of Heathbourne Road Bushey Heath
Planning application: 24/0692/OUTEI
Outline application comprising of:
- a range of types and tenures of C2 and C3 residential units;
- C2 care facilities;
- clubhouse building;
- other buildings and lifestyle facilities providing a range of Class E, F1, F2 and sui generis uses;
- open spaces, park and natural green spaces, play and outdoor sports facilities, community growing facilities and ancillary Class E and F2 amenities;
- a new transport hub and related transport facilities, together with associated vehicular means of access, parking, cycle routes and footpaths;
- infrastructure works to provide drainage, utilities and associated services.
Click here for further details
Planning application: 24/0692/OUTEI
Outline application comprising of:
- a range of types and tenures of C2 and C3 residential units;
- C2 care facilities;
- clubhouse building;
- other buildings and lifestyle facilities providing a range of Class E, F1, F2 and sui generis uses;
- open spaces, park and natural green spaces, play and outdoor sports facilities, community growing facilities and ancillary Class E and F2 amenities;
- a new transport hub and related transport facilities, together with associated vehicular means of access, parking, cycle routes and footpaths;
- infrastructure works to provide drainage, utilities and associated services.
Click here for further details
New Development Proposed on Green Belt land on Barnet Lane!
ACT NOW - Responses required by 13th June 2024!
Have your say today by providing feedback on the consultation by Inspired Villages for a large Integrated Retirement Community on Green Belt land on Barnet Lane, Elstree.
They say they have Very Special Circumstances to build on Green Belt Land but they don't - we must respond.
Click here for further details
Have your say today by providing feedback on the consultation by Inspired Villages for a large Integrated Retirement Community on Green Belt land on Barnet Lane, Elstree.
They say they have Very Special Circumstances to build on Green Belt Land but they don't - we must respond.
Click here for further details
Hertsmere Local Plan
Respond by the deadline
29th May 2024 12 noon!
Objections to the Green Belt sites:
HEL 218 Organ Hall Farm 6.60 hectares, 195 homes
Click here
HEL 152 Lyndhurst Farm 5.20 hectares, 200 homes
Click here
HEL 274 Edgwarebury Farm 7.52 hectares, 100 homes
HEL 1011 Edgwarebury House 0.56 hectares 20 homes
Click here
HEL 212 Land off Watford Road (Cecils Horse Sanctuary), 2.28 hectares, 140 homes - Click here
HEL 197 Barnet Lane (West)(Hartfield Ave)
3.00 hectares, 75 homes - Click here
HEL 209 Land off Barnet Lane (East), 12.63 hectares, 250 homes - Click here
22/1526/FULE1 Adjacent to Sky Studios 15.39 hectares, employment
Plans in for development on Allum Lane Fields including 150 homes, a leisure/community centre and Schopwick Surgery relocation.
Note: this IS NOT in the Hertsmere Local Plan - its an extra threat to Green Belt!
Object by 23rd May 2024
The Allum Lane Green Belt fields are once again under threat from property developers, Endurance Estates, Rangeford Villages and Bidwells.
Their proposal is for the relocation of Schopwick Surgery with expansive medical facilities and a Care Community, comprising 20 bungalows, 130 apartments (2/3 levels) plus a large building housing a swimming pool, studio, gym, 3 treatment rooms, dining room, activity room, salon etc. plus extensive parking. The development is for high end senior accommodation, under leasehold with service charges.
Click here to find out more
Their proposal is for the relocation of Schopwick Surgery with expansive medical facilities and a Care Community, comprising 20 bungalows, 130 apartments (2/3 levels) plus a large building housing a swimming pool, studio, gym, 3 treatment rooms, dining room, activity room, salon etc. plus extensive parking. The development is for high end senior accommodation, under leasehold with service charges.
Click here to find out more
Woodcock Hill Village Green
Last Chance to Appeal to The Supreme Court is available
Deadline is 16th May 2024 - Please donate before this date!
Lawyers working on the WHVG Appeal have put forward a last chance to save the Village Green by going to the Supreme Court.
Click here to find out more.
Deadline is 16th May 2024.
Click here to find out more.
Deadline is 16th May 2024.
Woodcock Hill Village Green Appeal is lost
The Court of Appeal have dismissed the Appeal
We are very sad to hear on 25th April 2024 that WHVG have lost their appeal.
Please click here to read about the decision by the Court of Appeal which was:
1. The Appeal is dismissed.
2. The Appellant do pay the Respondent’s costs of the appeal, to be assessed if not agreed, and capped at £7,500 in accordance with the order of Singh LJ of 7 June 2023.
3. The Appellant’s application for permission to appeal to the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom is refused.
Please click here to read about the decision by the Court of Appeal which was:
1. The Appeal is dismissed.
2. The Appellant do pay the Respondent’s costs of the appeal, to be assessed if not agreed, and capped at £7,500 in accordance with the order of Singh LJ of 7 June 2023.
3. The Appellant’s application for permission to appeal to the Supreme Court of the United Kingdom is refused.
What's happening NOW in your local area?
How can YOU help?
Hertsmere Local Plan is now published - HAVE YOUR SAY
You must reply before noon on 29th May 2024
Click here for the Local Plan on the HSB website
The promoted housing and employment sites include the required release of 6.25% of Green Belt land, more than the 'less than 1%' promised prior to the local elections in 2023.
A number of engagement events were held across the borough while the consultation is open(all events 2.30pm to 8pm):
Tuesday 16 April: The Bushey Centre, Bushey.
Thursday 18 April: Shenley Park Chapel, Shenley.
Wednesday 24 April: Wyllyotts Centre, Potters Bar.
Thursday 25 April: South Mimms Village Hall, South Mimms.
Wednesday 1 May: The Radlett Centre, Radlett.
Thursday 2 May: Manor Hotel, Elstree.
Tuesday 7 May: Imperial Place (opposite Civic Offices), Borehamwood.
Click here for more details on this website
Sky Studios - SUCCESS!!
Plans were submitted for a further development on green belt land.
These plans were refused on 21st April 2024.
Click here for more details.
Hartfield Avenue / Barnet Lane - LOSS OF GREEN BELT
The plans to build on the site were refused.
The Appeal by the developers was granted so developers can build 75 houses.
A very bad result for Green Belt.
This site is in the Local Plan 2024.
Click here for further details.
BE6 Barnet Lane - SUCCESS!!!
Planning permission submitted for 220 homes by Barratt homes off Barnet Lane was refused at the HBC Planning Meeting on 11th March 2024.
We expect the developers to go to Appeal.
This site is in the Local Plan 2024
Click here for more information.
Solar Plant - SUCCESS!!
The Solar Plant Appeal turned down by the Planning Inspectorate. Click here for more details
Woodcock Hill Village Green - AWAITING OUTCOME
Court hearing took place on 24th January 2024. Click here for more details.
Organ Hall - AWAITING OUTCOME
Awaiting outcome of revised plans.
Elle Dani Farm, Allum Lane, Elstree - AWAITING OUTCOME
Plans for the development of Elle Dani Farm on Allum Lane, Elstree were published on 23/8/23.
UPDATE: Planning permission pending.
This site IS NOT in the Local Plan 2024.
Click here for more details.
Cecils Horse Sanctuary, Watford Road, Elstree - IN HERTSMERE LOCAL PLAN
Plans for a proposed retirement scheme on the site of Cecils Horse Sanctuary have been submitted by Retirement Villages Group. Cecils Horse Sanctuary have to be out by April 2024 but have not found a local relocation option.
This site is in the Local Plan 2024.
Click here for more information.
Large scale planning application to construct a major Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on the outskirts of Radlett by the developer Chiltern Green Energy. Click here for details from the public meeting on 24th August 2023.
How can YOU help?
Hertsmere Local Plan is now published - HAVE YOUR SAY
You must reply before noon on 29th May 2024
Click here for the Local Plan on the HSB website
The promoted housing and employment sites include the required release of 6.25% of Green Belt land, more than the 'less than 1%' promised prior to the local elections in 2023.
A number of engagement events were held across the borough while the consultation is open(all events 2.30pm to 8pm):
Tuesday 16 April: The Bushey Centre, Bushey.
Thursday 18 April: Shenley Park Chapel, Shenley.
Wednesday 24 April: Wyllyotts Centre, Potters Bar.
Thursday 25 April: South Mimms Village Hall, South Mimms.
Wednesday 1 May: The Radlett Centre, Radlett.
Thursday 2 May: Manor Hotel, Elstree.
Tuesday 7 May: Imperial Place (opposite Civic Offices), Borehamwood.
Click here for more details on this website
Sky Studios - SUCCESS!!
Plans were submitted for a further development on green belt land.
These plans were refused on 21st April 2024.
Click here for more details.
Hartfield Avenue / Barnet Lane - LOSS OF GREEN BELT
The plans to build on the site were refused.
The Appeal by the developers was granted so developers can build 75 houses.
A very bad result for Green Belt.
This site is in the Local Plan 2024.
Click here for further details.
BE6 Barnet Lane - SUCCESS!!!
Planning permission submitted for 220 homes by Barratt homes off Barnet Lane was refused at the HBC Planning Meeting on 11th March 2024.
We expect the developers to go to Appeal.
This site is in the Local Plan 2024
Click here for more information.
Solar Plant - SUCCESS!!
The Solar Plant Appeal turned down by the Planning Inspectorate. Click here for more details
Woodcock Hill Village Green - AWAITING OUTCOME
Court hearing took place on 24th January 2024. Click here for more details.
Organ Hall - AWAITING OUTCOME
Awaiting outcome of revised plans.
Elle Dani Farm, Allum Lane, Elstree - AWAITING OUTCOME
Plans for the development of Elle Dani Farm on Allum Lane, Elstree were published on 23/8/23.
UPDATE: Planning permission pending.
This site IS NOT in the Local Plan 2024.
Click here for more details.
Cecils Horse Sanctuary, Watford Road, Elstree - IN HERTSMERE LOCAL PLAN
Plans for a proposed retirement scheme on the site of Cecils Horse Sanctuary have been submitted by Retirement Villages Group. Cecils Horse Sanctuary have to be out by April 2024 but have not found a local relocation option.
This site is in the Local Plan 2024.
Click here for more information.
Large scale planning application to construct a major Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) on the outskirts of Radlett by the developer Chiltern Green Energy. Click here for details from the public meeting on 24th August 2023.
Your Green Belt needs you!
Join Elstree and Borehamwood Green Belt Society TODAY
From 1st April 2023 membership is only £5 per annum per individual or household (same price but increases our member numbers), although an additional donation is always welcome.
EBGBS are a non political, non profit making society that works to protect the Green Belt land in Elstree and Borehamwood from development, communication with and working in conjunction with local and national like minded organisations.
As a member you will receive regular updates regarding our Green Belt at this critical time.
Click here to JOIN US or RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP
Meet the Committee:
Chair: Dr. Ann Goddard
Acting Chair: Mrs. Pat Strack
Treasurer and Web: Ms. Helen Stammers ([email protected])
Secretary: Ms. Marjorie Davies
Membership: Mrs. Karen Forrester ([email protected])
Planning: Mr. Jonathon Supran
Member: Mr. Clive Butchins
Chair: Dr. Ann Goddard
Acting Chair: Mrs. Pat Strack
Treasurer and Web: Ms. Helen Stammers ([email protected])
Secretary: Ms. Marjorie Davies
Membership: Mrs. Karen Forrester ([email protected])
Planning: Mr. Jonathon Supran
Member: Mr. Clive Butchins
UK Green Belt
The UK Green Belt was formed by law in 1949 to prevent speculative ribbon development around London and other large cities in the United Kingdom. The first records of EBGBS date from 1959 when the battles against building on Woodcock Hill on the south side of Borehamwood started. We have been contesting Green Belt and conservation issues ever since.
If you care about your environment please join us today.