A new pilot scheme requiring housing developers to pay a nature levy in parts of Norfolk has drawn criticism from environmental groups. The government's Environmental Delivery Plan (EDP) aims to unlock space for thousands of homes by having developers contribute funds for environmental projects.
Under the proposals, developers would pay £2,675 per house, with the levy hoped to raise around £42m. This money would be used to create new wetlands, fund deer culls, and restore rivers, particularly in central Norfolk and parts of The Broads.
However, ecology experts, including Sally Haines from the Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management, fear the plan may not tackle the sources of pollution, potentially leaving vulnerable chalk streams at risk. Eliot Lyne of Norfolk Wildlife Trust also expressed concerns that the plan could weaken existing protections for important wildlife sites.
Environment Secretary Angela Eagle described the plan as a "win-win" for development and nature, claiming it would unlock space for 15,780 homes currently stalled due to river protection rules. Natural England, which is leading the project, hopes to roll out EDPs in other parts of England in the future.