House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement
Delivering sustainable development for nature and growth
16 March 2026 · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Proposed by Emma Reynolds Lab Wolverhampton North East
Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.
At a glance
Key points
- The statement addresses the need for modernising environmental regulations to support sustainable development while preserving nature.
- The minister proposes a new approach involving smarter regulation, proactive engagement with developers and regulators, and enhanced predictability in planning processes.
- The government will continue to streamline the planning process through the Planning and Infrastructure Act and deliver better outcomes for nature via proposals like the Nature Restoration Fund.
Issue summary
The statement addresses the need for modernising environmental regulations to support sustainable development while preserving nature.
Action requested
The minister proposes a new approach involving smarter regulation, proactive engagement with developers and regulators, and enhanced predictability in planning processes. The government will continue to streamline the planning process through the Planning and Infrastructure Act and deliver better outcomes for nature via proposals like the Nature Restoration Fund. This includes five key areas of focus.
Key facts
- Government committed to building 1.5 million homes and fast-tracking 150 major planning decisions.
- Environmental requirements previously hindered infrastructure development without aiding nature recovery.
- Independent reviews suggest smarter regulation is needed for better environmental outcomes.
- Defra has established the Infrastructure Board to scrutinise complex projects' planning needs.
- Proposals include the Nature Restoration Fund, aligned with the Environmental Improvement Plan.