Campaigns Update

One year ago today, the government published its Planning for the Future white paper, a blueprint for the biggest shake-up of the planning system since the Second World War. 

In the foreword, the Prime Minister vowed to ‘tear it down and start again’. Many of us know the planning system isn’t perfect, but what the government was proposing to do was like demolishing the whole house just to fix the roof. 

Their proposals still threaten local democracy, green spaces and affordable housing. 

But one year on, what exactly has happened, what concessions have been won, and where do we go from here?

The countryside, isn’t just about rolling fields, shady woods or the scurry of a fieldmouse (although those things are great!) 

It’s about the stories, experiences and community that we can all find there. 

It’s precious moments with friends in your favourite beauty spot. It’s the simple pleasure of seeing a familiar place evolve with the seasons. It’s waving hello to your neighbour. 

That’s why we asked you to share your story of what a week in the countryside looks like for you. 

We’ve put all these moments together to celebrate your rural stories, and shared them on social media. 

Why not check it out? Watch and share the video on Facebook by clicking the button below. 

We believe the countryside has the potential to enrich all our lives. But many people face barriers to accessing and benefitting from our wonderful landscapes. 

That’s why we’re excited to launch the stories and findings from a research project on access to the countryside for people of colour. 

Led by people with lived experience, this project shines a light on the difficulties people of colour face when accessing the countryside, as well as how income, class, gender and disabilities play a part in limiting opportunities to connect with the great outdoors.

The humble hedgerow is the unsung hero of our countryside.

Hedges connect habitats and provide homes for wildlife. They protect the soil, clean the air and absorb carbon emissions.

But around half our hedgerows have been lost since the end of the Second World War - leaving us vulnerable to the threats of climate change and air pollution, while intensifying nature’s decline.

That’s why we’re calling on the government to commit to planting thousands of miles of hedges all across the country – starting now.

If you haven’t already, will you join more than 30,000 of us to demand that the government takes action?

August is a time of plenty, with nectar for insects from numerous flowers which in turn means food for birds.

Young swallows fly low above the long grass of pastures and parks, scooping up flies, preparing for their autumn migration. And nature is beginning to fill her autumn larder, with blackberries, rowan berries and rosehips starting to ripen. 

From jays to toads to hedgehogs, check out Susie White’s tips for what to spot in the countryside this month.

Join us on Tuesday 14 September from 6.30pm for a fun and creative evening full of hope for the countryside in the face of the climate crisis.  

Attend in person at the prestigious Glaziers Hall next to Southwark Cathedral on London’s South Bank, or take part from the comfort of your own home through a live-stream. 

With speakers including potter and designer Emma Bridgewater CBE, our chief executive Crispin Truman OBE and entrepreneur Safia Minney, don’t miss out on this exciting evening all about the nature-based climate solutions that the countryside offers.

Plus, enjoy a gentle form of activism with Sarah Corbett, founder of the Craftivist Collective!