A number of constituents have contacted me about the forthcoming planning reforms and the need to ensure they deliver for both people and wildlife. As someone with a passion for nature, I fully recognise the importance of tackling the nature crisis while also supporting the vital need for new infrastructure, housing, and clean energy.
I understand the urgency of the situation: England’s biodiversity is under immense pressure, and it is imperative that we act to halt the decline of species and restore nature to its former richness. As many rightly point out, our planning system must be more than just a tool to manage development – it should also actively support the restoration and protection of nature.
However, it is equally important to recognise the legitimate needs of farmers and landowners who play a critical role in managing and conserving large areas of our countryside. Their expertise in land management and stewardship is crucial in creating space for wildlife while continuing to produce the food and resources our country relies on. Any planning reform must strike a balance that both supports farmers in their essential work and protects the natural environment.
I strongly believe that a nature-friendly planning framework can align these two goals – by ensuring that new developments and energy projects are designed in harmony with the landscape and ecosystems they are built upon. Protecting our most vital natural habitats, while supporting farmers and communities, will be key in achieving both our environmental and development goals.
