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New Towns: Biodiversity

Asked by Blake StephensonConservativeMinistry of Housing, Communities and Local GovernmentTabled Answered 30 June 2025UIN 61252

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, whether the New Towns Taskforce has consulted with specialist (a) arboriculturalists and (b) ecologists on the potential impact of the proposed new town locations on biodiversity.

Answered by Matthew Pennycook

The New Towns Programme aims to create environmentally resilient places that support the government’s net-zero agenda through sustainable design, nature enhancement, low-carbon infrastructure, and responsible development, including flood risk mitigation.

In developing proposals for new towns, the Taskforce will work with local leaders and communities to consider the different impact of new towns, including any environmental impacts.

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