Planning and Infrastructure Bill Raises Concerns for Dorset’s Natural Habitats

Environmental groups are raising alarms over the UK Government’s proposed Planning and Infrastructure Bill, warning it could undermine long-standing protections for the natural environment. Dorset’s unique ecosystems, including its heathlands, chalk streams, and wetlands, could be among the most affected if current proposals proceed.

The legislation, particularly the section referred to as “Nature Recovery,” is under criticism for potentially misrepresenting wildlife and environmental regulations as barriers to development. Research from The Wildlife Trust highlights that protected species were cited in only 3% of planning appeals in 2024, and Natural England reports that 99% of planning applications ultimately go ahead with appropriate ecological accommodations. These figures suggest that development and conservation are not mutually exclusive...

Environmental Protections Could Be Weakened Under Proposed Changes

The Office for Environmental Protection has warned that the current wording of Part 3 of the Bill may lead to what it describes as “environmental regression.” This would mean replacing clear, enforceable laws with weaker, less defined commitments, potentially delaying essential conservation work and shifting responsibility for habitat restoration far from the original sites of environmental damage.

In Dorset, such changes could impact critical natural areas such as Purbeck’s heathlands, Poole Harbour’s wetlands, and the county’s fragile chalk streams. These ecosystems not only support a rich variety of species like otters, dormice, and rare butterflies, but also provide valuable services such as flood mitigation, clean water, and carbon sequestration.

Image: Purbeck’s heathlands

Public Opinion Supports Stronger Safeguards for Nature

A recent poll commissioned by The Wildlife Trust shows that only 26% of UK adults believe the government is doing enough to tackle the nature crisis, and just one in four would support local developments that harm the environment. The public’s preference is clear: homes should be built, but not at the cost of destroying critical habitats.

Efforts by environmental organisations—including The Wildlife Trust, RSPB, and others—to work with the government and propose amendments have been largely dismissed. Critics argue that the proposed Bill undermines previous government commitments to halt species decline and expand protected habitats by 2030.

These organisations are now calling for the removal of Part 3 from the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, advocating for development that works in harmony with nature rather than at its expense. They emphasise that nature recovery requires more than promises; it demands effective policy, investment, and long-term stewardship.

Image: Dorset Wildlife Trust

Hambledons: Here to help

You can take a look at our other blog posts here. From Dorset fencing, Dorset hedge cutting/replacement/maintenance to hedge planting and instant hedges, you can be sure to know that our friendly, Dorset-based team use the best equipment on the market in combination with first-class customer service. View our full range of quality services here.