You may have heard some politicians recently claiming that the environment stands in the way of economic development. That we have to make a decision: nature or growth. Hedgehogs or housing. Here at Devon Wildlife Trust, we simply don’t believe we need to choose one or the other. We have always known that a thriving economy needs a healthy environment. Development and nature’s recovery can, and should, work in harmony.

But we won't beat about the bush - nature needs your help.

Add your signature to the letter

We have been watching the UK Government's new Planning and Infrastructure Bill very carefully, with growing concern. Along with other environmental groups, we have been working in Parliament to propose amendments, seeking changes during this crucial early stage of the Bill’s journey. Sadly, we’re increasingly convinced that, as the Bill stands, habitats and wildlife will suffer, or worse still, be lost forever. Yet, with some specific changes to the Bill, we can have wilder, healthier villages, towns and cities. Read more about The Wildlife Trust's requested amendments.

Safe and healthy homes within nature-rich developments are key to creating happy, cohesive communities. The Bill was hailed as a ‘win-win’ for nature and built development; but this is sadly not turning out to be the case. As it stands, potentially harmful developments could easily slip through the system, given proposals to dismantle vital safeguards for nature. Proposals which could see developers pay ‘cash to trash’ wildlife, instead of working to avoid harm and recover nature as they build. Please stand with us to help stop this from happening.

Along with other Wildlife Trust Chief Executives across England, I, Nick (CEO), have signed an open letter to Angela Raynor, the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, and Deputy Prime Minister. Our message is clear – there can be no economic growth without environmental growth: use this Bill to drive nature’s recovery and create healthy communities rich in wildlife.

As valued members and supporters of Devon Wildlife Trust, we invite you to add your signature to ours. We intend to take the letter directly to London and hand it to Angela Raynor in a few weeks. 

Add your signature to the letter

Thank you for all you do. Stay wild!