District warns planning bill could weaken environmental safeguards

In its letter, the council warned against proposals that could mean decisions about species and habitat protection are made nationally, rather than by those with local knowledge.  

The bill includes provisions for a new scheme, administered by Natural England, for a nature restoration levy payable by developers, and changes to compulsory purchase of land and environmental outcomes reports, among other things.  

West Oxfordshire raised concerns that the new Nature Restoration Levy and Environmental Delivery Plans (EDPs) “are unclear”.

The levy is a charge developers would pay to offset damage to nature, and EDPs will guide how that money is used.

It said these measures may not properly link up with existing rules like Biodiversity Net Gain, which already requires developers to improve nature as part of new projects. 

West Oxfordshire has called on the Government to “make new planning rules clearer and easier to understand”, and for decisions and funding to stay close to communities.

Cllr Hugo Ashton, Executive Member for Planning, said: “While we agree with many of the proposed changes to planning rules, we feel that we need to keep a balance between decision-making that protects our communities and speeds up development. Some of the proposed changes we feel go too far in missing the value of local input.”

Cllr Andy Graham, Leader of West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “The aim is simple: to secure planning rules that protect nature, keep communities involved, and support sustainable growth.

“The council will continue to work constructively with the Government to ensure national policy reflects local priorities and safeguards the district for future generations.”

West Oxfordshire’s call comes as the bill has passed through both the House of Commons and Lords and is currently at the consideration of amendments stage.

Adam Carey