Seeking Neutrality (Of Water Use, Nutrients And Activity!)

Natural England may be developing a reputation as a thorn in the housebuilder's side as a moratorium on residential development was announced across a number of local councils in the Home Counties this week. The balance between the aspirations (and indeed Government targets) of building much needed housing and protecting the environment has, therefore been brought into sharp focus once again.

Natural England, which is responsible for protecting and improving England's natural environment, published a letter to a number of local planning authorities in the Home Counties and the National Trust, warning of the threat of unlawful damage to the Chilterns Beechwoods Special Area of Conservation (SAC), caused by an increase in recreational pressures on the site which may be exacerbated by increased residential development.