Natural England has risen to the challenge to speak up for wildlife, environmentally responsible farming and the urban environment, but still speaks too quietly when it comes to the importance for us all of landscape quality and protection.  

This is the Campaign to Protect Rural England’s (CPRE) [1] verdict on Natural England’s Manifesto for the Natural Environment published today (Monday). [2]

Commenting on the Manifesto Tom Oliver, CPRE’s Head of Rural Policy said:

‘The call by Natural England for urgent action to protect England’s wildlife habitats from urban development and climate change should be heeded by Government departments. But CPRE is disappointed that the quality of the human habitat, through the protection of landscape character and a tranquil experience in the countryside is given little prominence.

‘Natural England’s responsibility to speak out and act for England’s outstanding landscapes, whether nationally protected or not, is just as great as its obligations towards wildlife.  Defra has rightly singled out the need to secure tranquillity for people in urban settlements. [3] We urge Natural England to apply the same commitment to the experience of rural tranquillity.’

Tom Oliver continued:

‘One aspect of the threat facing our precious landscapes is the need to reconcile renewable energy, and particularly onshore wind generation, with retaining the wild and beautiful qualities of our magnificent landscapes.  We warmly welcome Natural England’s commitment to help find appropriate places for wind turbines in the countryside. [4] We are strongly committed to helping Natural England achieve this goal. Working with existing planning policies and landscape designations will be essential.

‘We agree with Natural England that we need a new approach to conservation if we are to tackle the modern pressures on land created by climate change and development pressures. Also that safeguarding our natural environment is important away from our finest landscapes and habitats.’

Tom Oliver concluded:

‘CPRE is committed to working hard with Natural England for this new approach. We’ll be pushing vigorously for landscape quality and tranquillity to be high on its agenda too.’

– END –

NOTES FOR EDITORS

1. CPRE, the Campaign to Protect Rural England, is a charity which promotes the beauty, tranquillity and diversity of rural England. We advocate positive solutions for the long-term future of the countryside. Founded in 1926, we have 60,000 supporters and a branch in every county. President: Bill Bryson. Patron: Her Majesty The Queen. www.cpre.org.uk

2.  Natural England published its Manifesto for the Natural Environment on Monday 19 May.

3. Defra Minister Jonathan Shaw, commenting at the launch of Defra’s Noise Maps on Friday 16 May, said: ‘… we need to look at what further practical steps we can take to make people’s lives more tranquil.’ (Defra news release 141/08)

4.  Natural England’s Manifesto includes a commitment to publish a map of suitable locations for onshore wind energy development.  CPRE is concerned that this welcome initiative works within the planning system and takes full account of landscape, heritage and wildlife interests.