Dear John
We were devastated to learn that on Wednesday 7 December, Michael Gove gave the go ahead to a new coal mine in Cumbria - the first deep coal mine in the UK for 30 years.
This is a shameful decision that will degrade the countryside, pollute the atmosphere and make a mockery of the government’s legally binding climate commitments. Read our full comment below.
In other news, the government announced new measures in the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill that would give communities more say on local housing targets, brownfield development and short-term lets. This is a positive step in the right direction – read on for more about what this could entail.
Earlier this week, we held an event in Parliament to launch our new survey findings on the benefits of hedgerows on farmland and beyond. There's strong support from farmers to extend the hedgerow network and boost biodiversity, but government funding is lacking. Scroll down to read our report in full.
With December upon us and winter drawing in, we hope you're able to enjoy a wintry walk or two in your local countryside or green space this month. Looking ahead to the new year, we're excited that our Star Count will be taking place 17 – 24 February 2023 - details on how to sign up to take part will follow soon.
