Landowners could scupper free Land Registry access plans, campaigners warn
Summary
The UK government has proposed making Land Registry ownership information free to access, saying greater transparency could help public bodies plan homes, infrastructure and environmental projects. The eight-week public consultation has drawn support from campaigners and concerns from landowners about privacy and security.Key Facts
- The government opened an eight-week public consultation on its plans on Tuesday.
- Public sector bodies, including government departments and local authorities, would get free access to Land Registry information.
- A proposed free public dataset would identify owners of significant land holdings across most of England and Wales, but exclude ordinary homeowners.
- Investigators, civil society groups and regulators could access more sensitive information if they show a clear public interest.
- The government says at least 10% of land ownership is currently unknown.
- Campaigners say easier access could help councils find land for homes, schools, hospitals, transport, water infrastructure and nature protection.
- The Country Land and Business Association warned that publishing more personal information could expose families to fraud and identity theft.
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