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The UK settlement, population and economic challenges

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12
Question 2

Use information from Figures 1a, 1b and 1c, as well as your own geographical knowledge and understanding from your study of UK challenges.

'Building housing on greenfield and protected Greenbelt land is the only realistic way to meet the UK's future housing needs.'

Discuss this view.

Figure 1a: Projected growth in households by region in England (2021 to 2041)

RegionProjected Household Growth (%) 2021-2041
London12.1%
East of England11.5%
South West10.8%
South East10.2%
West Midlands8.5%
North West6.2%
North East3.5%

Figure 1b: Information on UK demographics and housing space

A text-based fact file detailing UK demographics. Key points: 1. Over-65s are projected to make up 24% of the UK population by 2043, increasing demand for accessible housing. 2. Average household size is falling, meaning more homes are needed even for the same population. 3. Target housing delivery: 300,000 homes per year. Actual current delivery: ~210,000 homes per year. 4. Total estimated capacity on existing urban brownfield sites is 1.2 million homes.

Figure 1c: Extract on 'Greybelt' and Greenbelt development

Extract from a planning journal. Critics argue that protecting all Greenbelt land regardless of its environmental quality prevents housing delivery. They introduce the concept of 'Greybelt' land—neglected sites like disused petrol stations, storage yards, and derelict car parks within designated Greenbelts. Opponents argue that any development on Greenbelt land accelerates urban sprawl and damages fragile local ecosystems.

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The UK settlement, population and economic challenges Questions

  1. GCSE
  2. /Geography
  3. /The UK settlement, population and economic challenges