Public to get free access to land ownership data in England

The government announced on Tuesday that it will make ownership records for the majority of land in England and Wales available to the public at no cost. This change would remove the financial barrier that has previously restricted detailed access to the Land Registry database. The proposals are open for public comment for the next eight weeks.

At least 10% of land ownership in England is currently unknown. A new free dataset will identify owners of significant holdings while excluding ordinary homeowners. Public sector bodies, such as local authorities and government departments, will gain free access to this information. This shift aims to help councils locate sites for new homes, schools, hospitals, and water infrastructure. Investigators and regulators may also access more sensitive data if they can demonstrate a clear public interest.

Guy Shrubsole, author of Who Owns England?, described the proposal as bold and sensible. He noted that the question of land ownership has been linked to wealth and power since the Domesday Book. Shrubsole warned that large landowners might attempt to block the plans at the final stage. He urged citizens to submit their views during the consultation period to ensure the process moves forward.

The government argues that increased transparency will allow for smarter decisions regarding housing and infrastructure. A government spokesperson stated that the move fills gaps in current data. The official claimed this approach benefits both the economy and nature by enabling better strategic planning. The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government oversees the Land Registry, which operates as an independent body.

Roger Mortlock, chief executive of the Campaign to Protect Rural England, supported the initiative. He said that making ownership information easier to access helps utilize every hectare of land effectively. This supports goals for housing, infrastructure, food production, and environmental recovery. Mortlock emphasized the need to address the pressure on the finite land supply.

Gavin Lane, president of the Country Land and Business Association, raised concerns about privacy. Lane represents landowners and rural businesses. He warned that publishing more personal information could make families vulnerable to fraud. He cited the rise of AI as a factor that makes identity theft easier. Lane argued that transparency should not compromise individual security and safety.

Internal disagreements exist between the government and the Land Registry regarding the extent of public scrutiny. The Land Registry acts largely independently under ministerial oversight. Shrubsole believes that centuries of secrecy over land ownership may end, provided enough members of the public respond to the current consultation.