New builds now greener and safer, says government statistics

More homes are being built on recycled land and at higher densities, according to updated statistics published by the government today.

Latest Land Use Change Statistics show 67% of all new dwellings in England were built on "brownfield" sites in both 2002 and 2003, compared with 56% in 1997. They also show new dwellings in England were built at an average density of 33 dwellings per hectare in 2003, compared with 27 dwellings per hectare in 2002 and only 25 in 1997.

Welcoming the figures Planning and Housing Minister Keith Hill said: "The South East and East have experienced a period of sustained economic growth which has created jobs and opportunities for many. It also means a greater need for teachers and nurses, fire fighters and police officers. They all need homes near where they work - not at the other end of the country. We must not let them down.

"But this does not mean we are concreting over the countryside - far from it. This government's commitment and proactive approach to brownfield site development is helping to reinvigorate our town and city centres while protecting our countryside from needless urban sprawl."

(gmcg/mb)