The approval mirrors the government's announcement last month that 'low quality' green belt land, also known as the grey belt, will be made available to enable new homes to be built.
The Lyndhurst Farm site is designated green belt, containing areas of previously developed land. Under the emerging draft National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), such land would likely be considered as grey belt under a new designation should it be adopted.
The site, located on the corner of Green Street and Stapleton Road, currently comprises a former plant hire equipment storage area as well as an area of allotments, with the plans to see the construction of 186 new energy-efficient homes which will include a mixture of flats, bungalows and houses. A new community hub is also part of the scheme proposals.
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The current allotments are to be relocated across the road, and it is proposed that the number of plots will double to 100. The new allotments site will include safe access for vehicles, onsite parking, disability-friendly plots, beehives and a hub.
Cllr Nik Oakley, our Portfolio Holder for Planning, Infrastructure and Transport, said: "The proposed scheme shows that, in Hertsmere, we are ahead of the government by using land which has been previously developed and is suitable for the construction of new homes. The majority of these new homes will be affordable, or for social rent, which is so important for people in our borough, where house prices are high due largely to our proximity to London.
"We are committed to making sure that our residents can have a high standard of living and also to ensuring that the local environment is protected and can thrive, so the relocation and expansion of the allotments, as well as the proposed improved facilities at the new site, is also wonderful news for local people."
