Campaigns Update

This week, the government published the Planning and Infrastructure bill as part of its commitment to ‘get Britain building’. The planning system is key to getting key infrastructure and new, genuinely affordable homes built in the right place. The system needs reform to help it do its job better, but we believe it must enhance environmental protections and opportunities for community engagement. Before the bill was published, we shared ten things we wanted to see from it. You can read our reaction to the bill below. 

Leaving a gift to us in your will is a powerful way to ensure that our countryside remains protected and accessible for future generations. Your legacy can help preserve beautiful landscapes, protect nature, and empower local communities. Every gift, big or small, contributes to sustaining our vital work. 

Email [email protected] for more information. 

The Agricultural Land Classification (ALC) system, which helps identify the best land for food production in England, is based on outdated data from 1941–1980. With climate change and soil degradation affecting farmland – especially peatland, it's crucial that the government update the ALC as soon as possible.

Over Christmas, we demonstrated how important the urban fringe was for farming and food security. We’ve since published our full report, ‘Farming on the edge’, which you can read here. Or, if you’re stuck for time, read the shorter version below.

Last month, we talked you through our response to the Land Use Framework. Our president, Mary-Ann Ochota, recently created a simple explainer indicating the importance of joined-up thinking on land use, which you can watch here. Want to add your thoughts to the government consultation? Click the link below and have your say.

As the spring equinox arrives at the end of March, we welcome longer, lighter days with day and night in perfect balance. The clocks will soon change, reminding us that summer is just around the corner. This is the perfect time to get outdoors.

When you join CPRE, you’ll be supporting our efforts to protect the countryside and preserve green spaces for future generations. You’ll also enjoy exclusive discounts, like access to incredible country homes and gardens across England at a discounted price.

Join us today to be part of a community dedicated to a thriving countryside!

Best wishes,

Lewis

Lewis Townsend

Communications Manager