‘Climate change is the overwhelming threat to the environment. But it would be madness to desecrate the countryside, one of the nation’s most valued environmental assets, in tackling it.  Protecting the landscape from damaging change must be at the heart of the renewable energy strategy if it is to command widespread public support.’

This is CPRE’s [1] reaction today (Thursday) to the Government’s consultation on a UK Renewable Energy Strategy [2].  Neil Sinden, CPRE’s Policy Director, said:

‘The proposed strategy is a bold attempt to get to grips with the challenge of moving to a low carbon future.  Public support is essential if we are to deliver the energy revolution we need.
 
‘Proper use of the planning system is key to securing that support, yet the Government appears intent on perverting the planning process [3] in ways which will only encourage public opposition and risk undermining the protection of our most valued landscapes.’

Neil Sinden concluded:

‘Planning should be centre stage in helping deliver development which minimises our energy needs, reduces the need to travel and protects the landscape.  We will seek to persuade the Government to see planning as an opportunity rather than an obstacle in delivering its renewable energy strategy.’   

– 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.   Consultation on the UK Renewable Energy Strategy was launched by the Prime Minister and Secretary of State for Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform, Rt Hon John Hutton MP, on 26 June.  The consultation deadline is 26 September.

3.   The Planning Bill’s proposals for an Infrastructure Planning Commission to take decisions on major infrastructure, including energy, is being pushed through Parliament despite widespread public and political concern (see pp.61-62 in the UK Renewable Energy Strategy).  Regional Planning Bodies are expected to set targets for renewable energy capacity rather than give priority to reducing energy demand (p.62).  The Strategy (p.71) proposes to extend the practice of developers offering ‘community benefits’, to encourage local communities to support renewable energy projects, which risks bringing the local planning system into disrepute.