FARNHAM'S MP has hit out over new figures which he claims show that half of all new homes in Waverley are being built on former back gardens. Jeremy Hunt, MP for South West Surrey, said the data for 2005 shows a rise of three per cent on the previous year, indicating that despite much opposition developers are going ahead and building on residential land more than ever before. The statistics were revealed as a Conservative bill to close the planning loophole that defines gardens as brownfield sites came back to the House of Commons last Friday. Under present planning rules, gardens are classed as brownfield sites – just like a derelict factory or railway siding – which means they are subject to a presumption in favour of development. Local councils have difficulty refusing planning permission without the risk that their decision will be overturned by the planning pnspectorate, which enforces government planning policy. The loophole has led to mature family homes being demolished and replaced by apartment blocks and carparks covering the whole site. Mr Hunt said: "I am very concerned to see that garden grabbing is still so prevalent in Waverley and that half of all new homes are being built on residential land. "While that is an astonishing figure in itself, what really worries me is the fact that the number is increasing - despite much campaigning and local opposition. "The current planning regulations favour the developer and the loophole is allowing too many homes to be built on Waverley's private green spaces, spoiling the character or our area and adding to the pressure on roads and services. "I shall be supporting the Bill calling for the loophole to be closed and for gardens not to be included in the definition of brownfield sites". The Land Use (Gardens Protection) Bill was presented to the House of Commons by Shadow Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government Caroline Spelman MP on Friday, June 15.
