The Landscape Institute (LI) is among nearly 80 organisations urging the new government to step back from plans to weaken environmental protections
The LI is among 78 environmental, animal welfare, and heritage organisations to sign an open letter to Prime Minister Liz Truss warning her government of the risks of environmental deregulation.
‘Together, The Retained EU Law (Revocation and Reform) Bill and Planning and Infrastructure Bill proposals to weaken planning protection could put paid to the chances of meeting legally-binding climate and nature targets, create uncertainty for vulnerable businesses, shatter the long-term sustainability of our economy, and unleash environmental losses that could reduce quality of life for millions of people,’ the letter cautions.
Nearly 80 organisations supported by millions of people are demanding the Government does not compromise on "bold and impressive" green promises and make us the Dirty Man of Europe.https://t.co/0xCp93NxBs
— Steph Spyro (@StephSpyro) October 3, 2022
The LI has been closely monitoring developments in government since Truss first announced her new cabinet in September, with some appointments indicating potential shifts in national policy.
In a ‘mini’ emergency budget announced on Friday 23 September, Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng announced the creation of low-tax, low-regulation ‘Investment Zones’ in England – a policy the RSPB called ‘an unprecedented attack on nature’. In response to suggestions that Investment Zones could be permitted in National Parks or other protected areas, DLUHC Secretary of State Simon Clarke MP stated on Twitter that ‘this categorically won’t be happening’.
This categorically won’t be happening. Investment Zones are about targeted sites for growth where local authorities want them and where government then signs off. This would NOT be in a National Park.https://t.co/geUYfXplXF
— Simon Clarke MP (@SimonClarkeMP) October 4, 2022
The government is still in a state of flux, and at present, there is nothing to suggest a firm trajectory on environmental policy. The LI is continuing to monitor the situation and will scrutinise any announcements that could have implications on the interests of our members, landscape practices, and the public.
