Definition of Previously Developed Land

Previously developed land (also commonly referred to as brownfield land) is that which is, or was occupied by, a permanent structure within a defined settlement limit. The term may encompass vacant or derelict lands; infill sites; land occupied by redundant or under-used buildings; a piece of industrial or commercial property that is abandoned or under-used and often environmentally contaminated. The following are excluded from the definition of previously development land: open space of public value as defined in Planning Policy Statement 8 'Open Space, Sport and Outdoor Recreation'; and the gardens of dwellings and apartments (broadly defined as those areas within the curtilage of a dwelling not containing buildings).