Housing targets threaten ancient woods, campaigners warn
Summary
Campaigners say England’s housing expansion and planning changes could increase pressure on ancient woodlands, even though national policy restricts building on or near them to wholly exceptional cases. The BBC found dozens of planned developments next to ancient woodland, including proposals near sites in Kent and Derby; the housing ministry said the woods retain strong protections.Key Facts
- England defines ancient woodland as land that has been continuously wooded since at least 1600.
- The government has pledged to build 1.5 million homes by the end of 2029.
- The grey belt policy allows development on some areas of lower-quality open land, including land previously protected by green belt rules.
- The BBC found dozens of planned developments immediately next to ancient woodland sites.
- Plans approved for 450 homes near Hook Wood in Gillingham, Kent, have raised residents’ concerns about effects on wildlife.
- Derby City Council refused plans for about 150 homes bordering Chaddesden Wood in 2025; residents fear the developer may submit amended plans.
- The housing ministry said ancient woodlands continue to have clear and strong protections.
- The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds said protections for irreplaceable habitats had improved but remained inadequate.
Read the Full Article
This is a fact-based summary from The Actual News. Click below to read the complete story directly from the original source.
