The subdivision and sale of small plots of agricultural land is a matter of widespread public concern. The issue was debated in the House of Commons on 8 December 2003. The Government has been considering the scope for taking action, and officials have met representatives of local authorities to discuss possible options.

The subdivision of fields gives rise to local concern because it can give a false impression that development of the land is bound to occur, regardless of any Green Belt status, planning guidance or development plan policies for the area.

Local planning authorities and amenity societies could consider advertising, public notices or use of the internet to give prospective plot purchasers a more realistic idea of the true development potential of their plots.


(Source: memo from the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister
to Chief Planning Officers in England.)