Brownfield site versus greenfield site

Many environments believe that new developments should be on built Brownfield sites- that is land within the built-up area that has been abandoned and is now lying idle- rather that on Greenfield sites.

With all land uses, there are arguments for and against each type of site.

Brownfield site advantages:  

• Reduces the loss of countryside and land that might be put to agricultural or recreational use
• Helps to revive old and disused urban areas
• Services such as water, electricity, gas and sewage already in place
• Located nearer to main areas of employment so commuting reduced 

Brownfield site disadvantages:

• Often more expensive because old buildings have to be cleared and land made free of pollution 
• Often surrounded by rundown areas so does not appeal to more wealthy people as residential locations 
• Higher levels of pollution; less healthy 

Greenfield site advantages:

• Relatively cheap and rates of house building is faster  
• The layout is not hampered by previous development so can easily be made efficient and pleasant 
• Healthier environment 

Greenfield site disadvantages:

• Valuable farm or recreational space lost
• Attractive scenery lost
• Wildlife and their habitats lost or disturbed 
• Development causes noise and light pollution in the surrounding countryside 
• Encourages suburban sprawl 

A brownfield site
















A greenfield site