Tories disregard water pollution rules for housing expansion

author: FutureCar Staff    

Environmental campaigners have raised concerns about the UK government's plans to relax water pollution rules in order to facilitate more housing construction. Housing Secretary Michael Gove has confirmed that the government intends to weaken EU-era "nutrient neutrality" laws, which currently prevent new developments from increasing pollution and harming waterways. The government claims that loosening these rules could result in the construction of up to 100,000 additional homes by 2030. However, campaigners argue that this move will not solve the housing crisis and will instead lead to more pollution in rivers.

Under the existing regulations, 62 local authorities in protected areas require builders to demonstrate that their developments will not introduce polluting phosphates and nitrates into rivers. These chemicals can have a detrimental impact on water quality and wildlife. Environmentalists have strongly criticized the government's decision, accusing it of disregarding environmental commitments and undermining nature protections. They argue that this move sets a dangerous precedent and raises questions about the government's commitment to environmental law.

'Nutrient neutrality' rules, which were in place prior to the UK's departure from the EU, were designed to protect waterways from harmful chemicals. These regulations require developers in protected areas to prove that nutrients will not run off into waterways before commencing construction. The government's proposed changes would make this requirement non-binding, allowing officials to ignore it. Critics of the existing rules argue that they are overly strict and hinder the construction of much-needed homes, despite farming being the primary source of river pollution.

Environmental organizations and opposition politicians have strongly condemned the government's plans. Greenpeace UK's Policy Director, Dr Doug Parr, stated that weakening pollution rules for sewage and farm run-offs would indicate a complete abandonment of efforts to protect waterways and wildlife. Liberal Democrat environment spokesperson Tim Farron described the scrapping of nutrient neutrality as a disgraceful act that would further degrade Britain's rivers. However, former Levelling Up Secretary Simon Clarke supported the government's decision, arguing that new homes are urgently needed to address the housing crisis.

The proposed changes will be introduced through an amendment to the Levelling Up and Regeneration Bill, which is currently being debated in the House of Lords. The government has also pledged to double its investment in the nutrient mitigation scheme, run by Natural England, to £280 million. Housing Secretary Michael Gove emphasized that the government is committed to building the necessary homes while protecting the environment, and that the changes will provide a significant boost to the UK economy.

Housebuilders have welcomed the government's announcement, asserting their commitment to safeguarding the country's waterways. Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman of the Home Builders Federation, expressed enthusiasm for the potential of the government's plans to unlock housing delivery across the country.

FutureCar Staff