There is big conservation news coming out of Scotland today.
The government has adopted new planning rules, known as National Planning Framework 4, which will ensure that *NO* development will be supported if it impacts ancient woodland & ancient & veteran trees across the country.
The new rules have come into force with immediate effect.
These habitats are irreplaceable, so it's a landmark step in the fight against climate & nature emergencies.
@timsmalley
Wow - much needed good news. Well done Scotland 🍾🥂
I hope that's one of the devolved areas the UK govt can't interfere with?
@ClaireCopperman I believe the entire planning system is devolved. In the NPPF (UKgov) there used to be a caveat for 'nationally important' projects or 'wholly exceptional reasons'... but it appears this loophole has been removed in Scotland's latest version of its planning framework.
Current UKgov planning guidance for ancient woodland, for reference: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/ancient-woodland-ancient-trees-and-veteran-trees-advice-for-making-planning-decisions#assess-the-effects-of-development
Tim Smalley
SomersetWhovian 🇺🇦💙