UK (Parliament Politics Magazine) – Nature groups warn UK planning bill weakens protections, citing risks to species, urging amendments to balance development and nature.
As reported by The Guardian, heads of 32 UK nature groups have urged the government to reconsider the planning bill, saying it “throws environmental protection to the wind.”
What did Richard Benwell say about the government’s planning bill?
Richard Benwell, CEO of Wildlife and Countryside Link, stated,
“The government is right that a win-win is possible for nature and development, but the planning bill is completely one-sided. It throws environmental protection to the wind, with little to offer future generations or communities fearful for the future of nature.”
He added,
“It would leave vulnerable species and irreplaceable habitats like chalk streams and ancient woodlands more exposed than ever to unsustainable development. Promises of nature recovery efforts in return are thin and uncertain.”
What did Beccy Speight say about the government’s planning bill?
Beccy Speight, the RSPB chief executive, stated,
“We were promised legislation that would deliver a win-win for nature and economic growth, but by stripping out essential protections for nature, this bill offers neither. Unamended, it will supercharge the decline of our most precious habitats and wildlife.”
What did Craig Bennett say about the planning and infrastructure bill?
Craig Bennett, the chief executive of the Wildlife Trusts, stated,
“As it stands, the limited safeguards for nature in the planning and infrastructure bill merely undermine nature protection laws and threaten the constructive dialogue of the Wildlife Trusts and environmental groups with Defra [the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs] and the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government.”
What did 32 nature bosses warn in their letter to the environment and housing secretaries?
The leaders of nature organizations, in their letter to the environment and housing secretaries, argued that the bill is “one-sided.” They added that it could allow developers to neglect environmental protections.
The letter states that the bill, if unchanged, could lead to species extinction, cause irreversible habitat loss, and hinder the government’s ability to achieve its Environment Act targets. They added that local communities could face increased sewage in rivers, higher flood risks, and the loss of valued parks and woodlands.
The nature bosses also argue the legislation weakens EU-derived habitat regulations, which could now be eroded after Brexit without consequences.
After Brexit, these were added to the UK statute book and still apply in Europe. They protect species like hazel dormice, otters, and vulnerable birds and butterflies.
What did CEOs propose to amend in the planning bill?
The heads of charities such as Butterfly Conservation and the Woodland Trust have suggested amendments to the bill to better prioritize environmental protection.
These recommendations are:
- They suggest guaranteeing environmental benefits upfront, like new habitats (ponds or woodlands).
- The focus should be on avoiding harm to nature before mitigation measures are used.
- They recommend requiring measurable and significant benefits to nature, not just probable improvements.
What new regulations has the government implemented to protect beavers?
The government has revealed new regulations requiring developers to survey for beavers near watercourses 12 months before applications, ensuring their habitats are not disturbed.
Developers will also be required to plant extra trees for beavers’ dam-building needs, a move that follows the February beaver release in Dorset.
Key aspects of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill 2024-2025
- NSIPs Reform: Streamlined consultation and legal processes.
- Electricity Infrastructure: Faster delivery and energy storage support.
- Transport Projects: Simplified planning for highways and EV charging.
- Planning Fees: Local authorities set fees, strategic planning boards.
- Natural England Powers: Environmental development plans replacing habitat rules.
- Development Corporations: Assistance for large housing projects.
- Compulsory Purchase: Simplified procedures and revised compensation.