Hundreds of you have got in touch about the unprecedented attack on nature we are seeing under this Conservative Government.

The UK is already one of the most nature depleted countries on the planet, with over 40% of species in decline. And yet the Tories are planning to scrap housing and environmental regulation and build over national parks and sites of scientific interest.  I’ve written to the new Levelling Up Secretary to ask for urgent clarification and assurance that house building and rewilding will go hand-in-hand.

Read my letter here:

Dear Mr Clarke,

I understand that several wildlife organisations, such as the National Trust and the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds have expressed deep concerns about the Government’s plans to amend or scrap environmental laws and the introduction of Investment Zones. I share their concerns and write to you seeking urgent clarification.

As you know, the UK is one of the most nature depleted countries on the planet, with over 40% of species in decline. I believe that we must promote rewilding and restore nature as much as possible. This is a critical part of a nature-led solution to the climate and ecological crisis we are facing. By December 2023, the Government will abolish all remaining EU regulations, without being required to replace them. In space of EU regulation and new UK regulation, I am concerned that nature and the environment will not receive continued protection.

For example, I understand that the Government has announced plans to create least 38 Investment Zones in England. These investment zones “will benefit from tax incentives, planning liberalisation and wider support for the local economy” and will be granted after a “rapid” selection process. Although I am completely in favour of house building, I believe all new homes must be of high-quality, affordable and sustainable. I am concerned that housing developers will be allowed to freely build in protected habitats, including national parks, and will not follow housing and environmental regulations that other developers must abide by. In addition, councils have the option to apply for zones in national parks, areas of outstanding natural beauty, (AONBs) sites of special scientific interest, (SSSIs) and green belt land. I would be most grateful if you could clarify whether these investment zones will be subject to environmental rules and housing regulations.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

Catherine