Planning reform without 'large-scale restoration of nature' will fail, according to wildlife charities

Party leaders are being urged to reform the planning system to protect rivers and other natural habitats.

Thirty climate and nature groups have backed proposals to prioritise “natural infrastructure” and restoration alongside the acceleration of renewable energy developments in the next Parliament.

Wildlife and Countryside Link, which represents the groups, called for stronger defences for river catchments against intensive livestock pollution and the inclusion of swift bricks and bat boxes on land.