Liberal Democrat councillors at North Hertfordshire District Council have successfully passed a motion calling for changes to proposed national planning reforms which they say could weaken protections for green spaces around villages.

At a full council meeting on 29 January, councillors backed a motion urging the government to reconsider proposals around so-called "grey belt" land within revisions to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), currently out for consultation.

The motion was proposed by Cadwell ward councillor Louise Peace, who cited a recent rise in speculative planning applications in areas such as Ickleford as a key concern. These applications seek permission to build homes beyond the allocations already agreed in North Herts Council's Local Plan.

Under the proposed planning changes, some land currently designated as green belt could be reclassified as "grey belt", making it easier for development proposals to come forward. Originally, this was understood to focus on previously developed sites such as abandoned car parks or disused petrol stations.

However, councillors backing the motion argued the policy could instead open up green field sites around villages to large housing proposals.

Cllr Peace said: "Large developments on edge-of-village locations can result in communities reliant on cars, using roads that are already at a standstill in peak periods. This sends a message to the government that planning policy should allow North Herts Council to build the right homes in the right place."

The motion also called for greater protection of rural habitats and green spaces, alongside a stronger requirement for genuinely affordable and socially rented housing in new developments.

Councillor Ruth Brown added that the proposals risked undermining the original purpose of green belt policy.

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"We do need more homes," she said, "but they must be in the right places, at the right price and with the right infrastructure. Many brownfield and already allocated sites remain undeveloped, and these should be prioritised over building on unspoilt countryside."

The government's consultation on the NPPF revisions, including grey belt proposals, runs until 10 March, after which ministers will decide whether to proceed with changes.

Residents across North Herts, including Hitchin and surrounding villages, are able to submit their own views as part of the consultation process.