Hertsmere MP Oliver Dowden has raised concerns about the government's new planning reforms and the impact they might have on the Green Belt.

In the King’s Speech, which sets out the Labour's new law-making plans, major reforms to the planning system were proposed.

This included a Planning and Infrastructure Bill, designed to streamline the process for approving critical infrastructure, and overhauling rules on the compulsory purchase of land.

Mr Dowden believes the new reforms will put pressure on the Green Belt around Hertfordshire, and he intends to put down amendments to legislation to ensure it is protected.

"I am very concerned at the Labour government’s planning reforms announced in the King’s Speech," he said.

"Sadly, the Green Belt is now at great risk thanks to the Labour government’s plans to reimpose mandatory top-down housing targets and redesignate large chunks of Green Belt as grey belt in order to build on it.

"Having been re-elected as your Member of Parliament, I want to assure you that my top priority continues to be protecting our precious Green Belt and I will be holding the government to account to ensure this."