The Built Environment Committee has released a report criticising the Government’s lack of coordination and effective strategy in reconciling development and environmental goals.
The report, entitled “The impact of environmental regulations on development,” raises concerns over the UK missing its housing targets and environmental objectives due to poor leadership and implementation.
Lord Moylan, chair of the committee, said: “The current approach to managing any conflict between new homes and the needs of the environment is failing to deliver for either side.”
He called for immediate political leadership to formulate a strategy that serves both housing and environmental conservation. Lord Moylan recommended that housebuilding targets be given statutory weight to ensure they are on par with environmental objectives.
During its inquiry, the committee found that up to 45,000 new homes per year might not be built due to recent Natural England advice on nutrient, water, and recreational applications, as part of the Habitats Regulations. Concurrently, 61% of the country’s Sites of Special Scientific Interest are in unfavourable conditions.
The committee also highlighted that smaller developers are being unduly affected. A lack of clear advice and support regarding nutrient and water neutrality risks driving small businesses out of operation in affected areas.
It suggests that public sector development mitigation schemes should prioritise provision for small and medium-sized developers.
“By allowing them to deliver offsite solutions and ensuring demands are not made ahead of statutory deadlines, the government can ensure these vital local businesses are able to survive,” the report noted.
Issues were also raised concerning brownfield development, which is hindered by the current planning and permitting processes. The committee recommended a review of planning and permitting requirements for brownfield land by the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities, in collaboration with the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs.
The committee’s findings also outlined unresponsiveness, delay, and overlapping responsibilities among Government departments, Natural England, and the Environment Agency.
It emphasised that the present approach does not effectively protect or improve the environment and called for improved communication and guidance for developers.
According to Lord Moylan, the solution requires “coherent, cross-government plans to address major pollutants and to ensure that money is expended where it will have the most impact.” He stressed that a long-term plan is crucial for meeting housing and environmental goals.
