What is the primary characteristic of a brownfield site?

The primary characteristic of a brownfield site is that it refers to land that has been previously used, abandoned, and now awaits new use. Brownfield sites are often former industrial or commercial properties that may be contaminated or in need of cleanup before they can be redeveloped. This definition captures the essence of brownfields, as they represent opportunities for redevelopment and revitalization in urban areas.

In the context of urban planning and development, understanding that brownfield sites have historical use is crucial, as they may come with challenges, such as environmental remediation but also potential benefits, like the revitalization of underused areas. This sets them apart from undeveloped land or land designated solely for agricultural use, which do not share the characteristic of previous abandonment or waiting for new development.