The removal of land from the green belt for strategic development at the locations referred to in Policies SP8 and SP3 is in direct contradiction of the Governments guidance. The planning guidance makes clear that, once established, Green Belt boundaries should only be altered in exceptional circumstances. SP3 & SP8 would fail the fundamental aim of green belt policy to prevent urban sprawl, neighbouring towns from merging into one another, safeguarding the countryside from encroachment, preserve the setting of an historic town and restrict the regeneration of derelict and urban land within North Hertfordshire. NPPF para 14 & 83.