The UK Brownfield Land Registers

A brownfield site refers to land that has been previously used for industrial, commercial, or other development purposes and may be contaminated or underutilized. These sites are typically abandoned, vacant, or derelict and are often located in urban or suburban areas. Brownfield sites contrast with greenfield sites, which are undeveloped or agricultural land.

Key characteristics of brownfield sites

Previous Use: Brownfield sites have a history of industrial, commercial, or other human activities. They may have been used for manufacturing facilities, warehouses, gas stations, railway yards, or similar purposes. The previous use of the land often results in contamination or the presence of remnants from previous activities.

Contamination Potential: Brownfield sites may have contaminated soil, groundwater, or structures due to historical activities such as chemical spills, improper waste disposal, or industrial processes. Contamination levels can vary, ranging from minimal to significant, depending on the site’s history and the nature of previous activities.

Underutilization or Abandonment: Brownfield sites are typically underutilized or abandoned, with buildings or infrastructure that may be in disrepair or require significant renovation. These sites often present redevelopment opportunities to repurpose the land for new uses and revitalize urban areas.

Location: Brownfield sites are commonly found in urban or suburban areas due to historical industrial and commercial activities. Their location within existing communities can provide opportunities for infill development and contribute to urban regeneration and the efficient use of land resources.

Brownfield redevelopment offers several benefits

Urban Regeneration: Repurposing brownfield sites can contribute to the revitalization of urban areas, transforming vacant or underutilized land into vibrant communities, housing, commercial spaces, or recreational areas.

Land Conservation: By redeveloping brownfield sites, the pressure on undeveloped greenfield land can be reduced, helping to preserve natural habitats, agricultural land, and open spaces.

Infrastructure Optimization: Utilizing existing infrastructure and services in urban areas can be more cost-effective and sustainable than developing new infrastructure on greenfield sites.

Sustainable Development: Brownfield redevelopment aligns with sustainable development principles by making use of existing resources, reducing urban sprawl, and promoting infill development that reduces the need for car-dependent lifestyles.

The Brownfield Registers

The UK’s brownfield land registers are databases maintained by local planning authorities that provide information on previously developed sites, known as brownfield land, within their jurisdiction. These registers were introduced as part of the government’s efforts to promote the effective use of brownfield land for housing and other development purposes. Here’s an explanation of the key aspects of brownfield land registers in the UK:

Purpose: The primary purpose of brownfield land registers is to identify and make publicly available information about brownfield sites that may be suitable for redevelopment. By encouraging the use of brownfield land, the registers aim to support urban regeneration, reduce pressure on greenfield sites, and promote sustainable development.

Contents: Brownfield land registers typically include information on sites that meet the government’s definition of previously developed land. This includes land that has been previously built upon, used for industrial or commercial purposes, or is contaminated or derelict. The registers may provide details such as site location, size, ownership, planning status, and any constraints or opportunities associated with the sites.

Data Collection: Local planning authorities are responsible for compiling and maintaining the registers. They gather information from various sources, including their own records, surveys, site assessments, and input from landowners and developers. Authorities are also encouraged to engage with the public and relevant stakeholders to identify additional sites for inclusion in the registers.

Publication and Accessibility: Brownfield land registers are typically published online and made accessible to the public. This allows developers, investors, and communities to easily access information on brownfield sites available for development. The registers are often updated periodically to reflect changes in site status or new additions.

Permission in Principle (PiP): Brownfield land registers play a role in the Permission in Principle (PiP) process, which streamlines planning permissions for residential development on suitable brownfield sites. When a site is included in the brownfield land register, it becomes eligible for PiP, which establishes the principle of development on the site. Further detailed planning applications are still required before construction can commence.

Housing Delivery Test: The information from brownfield land registers also contributes to the Housing Delivery Test, an assessment of local authorities’ ability to meet housing targets. The government uses the registers to track progress in identifying and delivering housing on brownfield sites, incentivizing authorities to prioritize the development of these sites.

By making information about brownfield sites easily accessible, the brownfield land registers aim to facilitate the identification and utilization of suitable land for development. The registers support the government’s commitment to sustainable development, urban revitalization, and efficient use of land resources, while promoting the regeneration of previously developed sites across the UK.