England · National documents
Brownfield land registers
Explains how councils prepare brownfield land registers and the distinction between a register entry and permission in principle.
AI-generated summaries of the linked official sources; not editorially reviewed. Sources and limits
Where this document applies
England: relevance depends on the proposal, site and planning process.
Brownfield land registers (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 59-001-20170728
A register entry is not the same as permission
Part 1 lists suitable brownfield sites. Part 2 records sites for which the required procedure has granted permission in principle. Identify which part contains a site before treating a register entry as establishing any planning consent.
Read the official source (official source, opens in a new tab) · Reference ID 59-001-20170728
Limits and checks
- This national source does not establish the local policies, designations or site facts that apply to an individual proposal.
- Some guidance predates the August 2026 Framework and may refer to earlier policy numbering. Read it with the current Framework and any applicable transition provisions.
Read alongside this document
Put the national source in your local context
Start with the exact refusal reason. Note the policy and paragraph it cites, then check your authority’s policy summary and the facts discussed in relevant appeal decisions. Each appeal turns on its own facts and does not predict another outcome.