Latest Land Use Change Statistics show 67 per cent of all new dwellings in England were built on "brownfield" sites in both 2002 and 2003, compared with 56 per cent in 1997. They also show new dwellings in England were built at an average density of 33 dwellings per hectare in 2003, compared with 27 dwellings per hectare in 2002 and only 25 in 1997.
Welcoming the figures Planning and Housing Minister Keith Hill said: "These statistics back up our commitment to get more development on recycled sites and that means affordable homes for young families and key workers - where they need them most. As well as delivering more homes these figures show we're using land more efficiently.
"The South East and East have experienced a period of sustained economic growth which has created jobs and opportunities for many. It also means a greater need for teachers and nurses, fire fighters and police officers. They all need homes near where they work - not at the other end of the country. We must not let them down.
"But this does not mean we are concreting over the countryside - far from it. This Government's commitment and proactive approach to brownfield site development is helping to reinvigorate our town and city centres while protecting our countryside from needless urban sprawl.
"The increased use of recycled land, the creation of 19,000 extra hectares of greenbelt since 1997, and the stringent guidelines in the planning system are all designed to stop unnecessary development and protect the English countryside for generations to come."
