Government plans could leave woods, trees and other important habitats vulnerable to destruction for development if we don’t speak up. The Planning and Infrastructure Act is now law but we hope to influence the finer details and its impact on nature as secondary legislation is developed.
In March 2025, the UK Government introduced the Planning and Infrastructure Bill – new legislation to accelerate the delivery of infrastructure, renewable energy, and 1.5 million homes by 2029. After some amendments, it was passed into law in December, becoming the Planning and Infrastructure Act 2025.
Protections for important woods, trees and wildlife could be in danger if the Government’s Planning and Infrastructure Act goes ahead unchecked. These ecosystems provide vital biodiversity, store carbon, and enrich our landscapes and our lives, but it’s all at risk now that crucial regulations are watered down.
We're seriously concerned that the act won't deliver the promised win-win for development and nature. Growth is important, but it cannot be at the expense of the natural world we all depend on. The UK is already one of the most nature-depleted countries in the world.
in Great Britain is at risk of extinction
that once thrived in the UK have been lost
in UK species populations on average since 1970
Ancient woodlands cover just 2.4% of the UK. Their complex biodiversity has developed over centuries, making them irreplaceable. If we lose them, they are gone for good.
Air pollution removal by vegetation is worth £12bn to the UK economy.
Trees and woods are critical infrastructure that support communities and improve quality of life for millions of people daily. They are havens for wildlife, improve our wellbeing, clean our air, cool our neighbourhoods, and so much more. They work silently day and night to make our streets healthier, our towns and cities more vibrant, and our ecosystems more resilient.
Initial proposals for the bill threatened to roll back vital nature protections. Some positive amendments were made thanks to the combined efforts of many environmental organisations and public support, but our work doesn’t end here. As Government develops legislation for this act, we’ll be keeping the pressure on to make sure nature gets the protection it needs.
