Councils defend the handling of green belt development

Officials stressed that no final decision has been taken and that consultation will run into the autumn. The figures represent the sharpest movement recorded since comparable data began. Independent analysts note the projections rest on assumptions that may prove optimistic.

Independent analysts note the projections rest on assumptions that may prove optimistic. Several of those briefed on the plans said the detail matters more than the headline commitment. Critics argue the measures do not go far enough to address the underlying pressures. Industry bodies have broadly welcomed the direction while warning about implementation costs.

Industry bodies have broadly welcomed the direction while warning about implementation costs. Similar schemes elsewhere have produced mixed results, with outcomes varying widely by region. Independent analysts note the projections rest on assumptions that may prove optimistic.

Critics argue the measures do not go far enough to address the underlying pressures. Similar schemes elsewhere have produced mixed results, with outcomes varying widely by region. The proposals, published on Tuesday, set out a timetable that officials say is deliberately cautious. Several of those briefed on the plans said the detail matters more than the headline commitment.