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Dear John,
This week, the government announced a series of last-minute amendments to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. The changes themselves could cause harm, but it’s the surrounding rhetoric that really strengthens our resolve — framing nature and local democracy as barriers to progress.
At the same time, the approval of a large-scale solar farm in Lincolnshire is another example showing that planning decisions are being made without a proper strategic plan that sustainably balances the needs of our finite land and the impact that developments could have on rural landscapes. You can read more about this below.
Over the past few weeks, we've attended the Labour ([link removed]), Conservative ([link removed]), Green ([link removed]), Liberal Democrats ([link removed]), and Reform ([link removed]) conferences, meeting with MPs and raising the urgent issues relating to the sustainable use of land.
We launched our latest brownfield report, which gained national attention with coverage in The Guardian ([link removed]), helping amplify our call for smarter, sustainable development. This came at a similar time to the government’s New Towns announcement. Read about our response below.
Meanwhile, our winter hedgerow planting season is underway, with 13 local CPRE groups taking part across England ([link removed]) to restore vital habitats and boost biodiversity.
With migrant birds arriving in our skies and the splendour of autumn colour in the countryside and green spaces, it's a timely reminder of how important nature is. We’re ready to stand up for it.
Don’t forget that CPRE Hertfordshire is leading a vital campaign to protect Green Belt land by redefining the ‘grey belt’ in planning policy. Help us reach 100,000 signatures, so Parliament must debate it. Sign the petition and stand up for your countryside. ([link removed])Latest on the Planning and Infrastructure Bill
The government has announced last-minute changes to the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. It’s not just the amendments that could be very damaging, it’s the rhetoric. Speaking of ‘tearing up red tape’ and ‘removing obstacles’ as if nature and local democracy are the problem. We know that’s not true, and the government's approach risks valuing the voices of investors and big developers over ordinary people and nature.
We can tackle the housing crisis without harming nature. We’re calling for a joined-up and grown-up conversation about the future of the planning system.
Read more ([link removed])
Mega solar farm approved in Lincolnshire
A solar farm the size of Heathrow Airport has just been approved in Lincolnshire - on some of the UK’s best farmland. This is industrialisation of our countryside while rooftops, warehouses & car parks sit unused. Rooftop solar alone could deliver over 60% of the UK’s solar target - without covering our fields.
Our research shows nearly 60% of the biggest solar farms are built on top-tier agricultural land, needlessly sacrificing landscapes we should be protecting. Renewable energy is vital. But it should bring communities together, not drive them apart.
Learn more ([link removed])
New town locations have been announced
Last month, the government announced their intention to start building three New Towns before the next election. We support sustainable New Towns in the right place delivering the homes we need but we’ll also campaign for changes to the proposals where New Towns could cause more harm than good. Too many proposed sites risk losing countryside and Green Belt land. Affected communities that are already facing increased housing targets deserve reductions to reflect the impact of a New Town.
Learn more ([link removed])
Winning for nature and our landscapes
Recently, we shared our outrage about rumours from Westminster suggesting the potential removal of the Protected Landscapes duty — the only legal power dedicated to securing action for nature. In response, we joined forces with over 170 charities, experts and businesses to urge the Prime Minister not to pursue these damaging changes.
The latest Planning and Infrastructure Bill amendments announced this week contained no proposals to weaken protections for National Parks and other cherished landscapes. This outcome shows the power of collective action, and what we can achieve when we stand together for nature.
Read more ([link removed])
Our latest report on brownfield
Our latest report reveals that more than half of brownfield sites had planning permission in 2024, which means they’re ready to build on fast. With enough land to deliver 1.4 million homes, brownfield should be the first choice. These sites are close to transport, schools, and healthcare, making them ideal for development, and helps us protect our countryside from urban sprawl.
Learn more ([link removed])
Party conference season has ended
Over the past month, we attended all five major party conferences, championing the countryside and highlighting rural issues. We made sure nature, affordable housing, climate change and smart approaches to renewable energy were high on the agenda. At the Labour Party Conference, we launched 'Rural Futures' with the Fabian Society, a new pamphlet exploring the opportunities and challenges facing the countryside.
Learn more ([link removed])
Best wishes,
Lewis Townsend
Communications Manager
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CPRE campaigns for a better future for the English countryside. We work locally and nationally to promote, enhance and protect a beautiful, thriving countryside for everyone to value and enjoy. Founded in 1926, we’re a grassroots organisation, with more than 100 local groups, a branch in every county and 60,000 members and supporters. CPRE is a registered charity (1089685) and a company registered in England (04302973). CPRE holds and manages data in strict accordance with the Data Protection Act (2018). Read our Privacy Policy ([link removed]).
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Campaign to Protect Rural England, 15-21 Provost Street, London, N1 7NH.
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