PLANNERS are no longer considering proposals to build nearly 3,000 new homes in the Chiltern district on Green Belt land.

Government officials have told Chiltern District Council they must provide that many new homes in the area by 2026 – which led to concerns Green Belt land may need to be built on.

The council's cabinet is set to decide on Tuesday where the buildings will be put up.

But a report states the cabinet “is not now proposing any release of Green Belt land” for development.

Following a public consultation, the council decided it would prefer to build the majority of the new houses in Amersham, Chesham and Chalfont St Peter, with the former Bucks New University site at Newlands Park being considered for building work.

It is hoped at least three quarters of the new homes will be built within a one mile radius of a railway or London Underground station, or within 400 metres of a bus stop with daily services.

A report said this was to “maximise efficiency in the use of energy, water and other resources, minimises pollution and waste and uses sustainable building practices”.

It is also hoped the new houses will lead to other facilities being created in the district, with plans for 120 extra care home spaces for the elderly.

The report to councillors said it was hoped the plans would “conserve and enhance the Chilterns Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty”.

The news has been welcomed by conservationists.

Sue Yeomans, a spokesman for the Chiltern Countryside Group, said: “We would welcome any decision by the council which enhances and preserves the unique qualities of the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the Green Belt.

“It's very important, not just for the quality of life of the people who live here, but for the many thousands of people who visit the countryside that it remains as tranquil and green as possible.

“Any development of Green Belt in that area would not be very helpful in maintaining the character of the Chilterns.”