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Green Belt Assessment 2026

To help inform the new Guildford Local Plan, we've prepared the Guildford Green Belt Assessment.

A new National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) was published on 17 August 2026. This amended the definition of grey belt. The GBA has been re-issued to reflect this change in definition. 

We've prepared some FAQs which provide context for the assessment and how it will be used - Guildford Green Belt Assessment FAQs (PDF, 119 KB)

The report sets out the methodology and findings. Use the interactive map below, or Appendix E, to find the reference for an Assessment Area. This can be cross-referenced with the proformas in Appendix B to view the detailed conclusions for each assessment area. The proformas from Appendix B are sorted by location at the end of this page.

The study evaluates the existing Green Belt across the borough and, as required by the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), seeks to identify 'grey belt'. 

The Government first introduced the concept of 'grey belt' through an update to the NPPF in December 2024. Grey belt is Green Belt land that does not strongly contribute to any of the following three Green Belt purposes as set out in NPPF Policy GB2 (1). These are:

  • Purpose a: to check the unrestricted sprawl of large built-up areas;
  • Purpose b: to prevent neighbouring towns merging into one another; and
  • Purpose d: to preserve the setting and special character of historic towns.

It can be previously developed land or greenfield land. 

You can read more here about our: New Guildford Local Plan.

Green Belt Assessment Appendix B -