During the interview, Sarah described the policy shift as "an absolute seminal moment for plan making and the future of the Green Belt," noting that after 70 years of the Green Belt being treated as "sacrosanct," this represents "a rewriting of the rule book."

Sarah highlighted that the new approach will likely result in large areas of land being classified as Grey Belt, particularly areas previously considered open countryside and land around villages.

The podcast also explored whether the new guidance provides sufficient clarity for conducting Green Belt assessments. Sarah pointed out that while the guidance does clarify certain definitions – such as distinguishing towns from villages – some ambiguity remains.

She suggested these uncertainties will likely be resolved through local plan examinations, appeals, and case law in the coming years.

Sarah brings 25 years of planning expertise to this discussion, having led Green Belt studies for over 45 local authorities. Named an RTPI Woman of Influence in 2020, she specialises in green infrastructure, strategic growth options, renewable energy, and climate change.

The full 50 Shades of Planning podcast episode, released on 29 March 2025, is available now on iTunes, Spotify, and other podcast platforms.

A longer version of Sarah's interview will be available on the 50 Shades of Planning YouTube channel in the coming weeks.