An MP has spoken out in defence of the greenbelt after the Prime Minister told him the need to build homes does not ‘trump’ greenbelt protection.

Banstead’s MP Crispin Blunt updated worried residents in Kingswood at the Kingswood Residents’ Association (KRA) AGM last Tuesday on his efforts to protect the greenbelt as a local plan is developed.

Mr Blunt told them a letter from David Cameron would help to prove the importance of greenbelt protection to the planning inspector.

In the letter Mr Cameron said they need to build many more homes and if there is no local plan then sustainable development should be favoured.

But he said this presumption in favour of development does not apply if greenbelt policies indicate development should be restricted.

Mr Cameron said: "The presumption therefore does not ‘trump’ green belt policy."

Reigate and Banstead Council has submitted a draft core strategy to the planning inspectorate which recognises the long-term need for some building in the greenbelt.

It also earmarks the location of greenbelt areas to be considered for development in the south of the borough if urban areas run out.

But members of the KRA remain concerned because developers have shown an interest in four nearby sites in the greenbelt.

Committee member Richard Lewis said housing developments had already been suggested in Shrimps Field, Sandy Lane, Banstead Estate and the former Red House School site.

Mr Lewis said: "We are extremely concerned because of the type of area this is.

"Some of the developments mooted would be completely out of character."

He said they welcomed Mr Blunt speaking about efforts to save the greenbelt at their AGM."

Mr Lewis said: "We are all very supportive of him.

"He’s definitely on our side and doing what he can."