Keir Starmer's planning bill is stirring unrest among Labour MPs due to its environmental implications. MP Chris Hinchliff argues the bill allows developers to bypass nature protections by paying fees, thus threatening habitats. As Labour plans to construct 1.5 million homes by 2029, concerns are growing that the legislation will undermine community interests and environmental integrity. Several MPs, including Clive Lewis and Terry Jermy, support amendments aimed at strengthening environmental protections. Critics, including major environmental organizations, contend the bill jeopardizes rare habitats without establishing a measurable environmental improvement baseline.
"These changes meant Labour would be fighting communities, kicking and screaming, adding: All that will do is push, push the public towards Reform and that politicians aren't interested in what really matters."
"The government argues that the proposed legislation will speed up housing developments... allowing developers to avoid meeting environmental obligations to protect habitats and species such as barn owls, otters, bats and newts."
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