Hedgerows: Legal Protection

Sobel highlighted the importance of hedgerows for biodiversity, carbon sequestration, and economic benefits. He mentioned CPRE research suggesting that expanding the UK's hedgerow network by 40% could create over 25,000 jobs in three decades with a £3.92 return per £1 spent. Sobel also cited Richard Bramley's experience in Tadcaster, noting the challenge of finding skilled workers for hedgerow planting and management.

Mr. Zeichner highlighted the importance of hedgerows in protecting wildlife, storing carbon, and reducing flood risks. He criticised the Government's lack of action regarding cross-compliance rules that protected hedges from chemical exposure and over-cutting. Mr. Zeichner urged the Minister to explain why no new regulations have been put in place despite knowing about the potential consequences since 2020. He criticises the Minister's remarks about 'burgeoning froth' and asks how many of the 80,000-plus individuals previously protected through cross-compliance are now receiving financial support under SFI.

Congratulates the hon. Lady on securing the debate, emphasises the importance of the farming community in promoting and enhancing hedgerows.

She expressed the importance of hedgerows for wildlife corridors, soil health, carbon sequestration, and biodiversity. She cited statistics from the People's Trust for Endangered Species on species diversity in hedgerows. The speaker highlighted issues with current cross-compliance measures, stating that they are voluntary and often burdensome due to lengthy digital systems. She also mentioned that payments for assessing and managing hedgerows (£3 per 100 metres for assessment, £10 for management) were insufficient compared to the time required.

The Member emphasized the significance of hedgerows in agricultural areas, noting their biodiversity benefits. He pointed out that cross-compliance obligations under the previous payment schemes ensured farmers maintained their hedgerows but with the transition to Environmental Land Management (ELM) schemes, only a small percentage of farmers are now participating and many are losing income. The Member expressed concern about the mental health impact on farmers due to financial pressures and highlighted the need for stronger legal protections and planning rules to preserve hedgerows. The Minister is addressing a straw man argument, as no one has suggested the points she mentioned. He emphasises that pushing farmers into situations with limited income options may lead to unwanted decisions.

Ms. Harrison thanked her colleague for raising the importance of hedgerows and highlighted the publication of the environmental improvement plan, which recognises the role of hedgerows in halting nature's decline by 2030. She also commended DEFRA's recognition of stone walls' ecological value and acknowledged that grubbing up hedgerows was a regrettable past policy. Ms. Harrison noted the benefits of farmers working together to enhance biodiversity, such as through initiatives like the West Lakeland Community Interest Company in Cumbria. She emphasised the role of gardeners in promoting biodiversity net gain and carbon sequestration, alongside the health benefits derived from engaging with hedgerows. She highlights the importance of encouraging gardeners to plant and protect hedgerows. She mentions that there are approximately 30 million gardens in the country, contributing significantly to environmental benefits. She also draws attention to the work done by Professor Alistair Griffiths at RHS Wisley and the Horticultural Trades Association.