Housing targets threaten ancient woodlands, campaigners warn

Campaigners are warning that a drive to build more houses could place England's oldest woodland habitats under increasing pressure. This concern arises despite government protections designed to prevent the loss of these ancient sites. The definition of ancient woodland, as established by the government, is land that has existed continuously as woodland since at least the year 1600. These habitats are considered irreplaceable and are among the richest for wildlife in the United Kingdom.

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The Labour government's pledge to construct 1.5 million new homes by the end of 2029, coupled with the recent introduction of the 'grey belt', areas of open space deemed of poorer quality suitable for development, are cited by campaigners as factors increasing the threat to ancient woodlands. The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) guidelines state that building on or near these protected areas is permissible only in 'wholly exceptional circumstances', such as for major infrastructure projects like HS2. However, campaigners argue that the 'grey belt' policy makes it more likely that areas adjacent to ancient woodland, previously safeguarded under green belt regulations, could now be developed.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government stated that ancient woodlands continue to benefit from 'very clear and strong protections'. Despite these assurances, the BBC has identified numerous individual sites where planned developments are located immediately next to these ancient woods. For instance, approved plans for 450 homes are situated within yards of Hook Wood in Gillingham, Kent, prompting fears among residents about the potential impact on local wildlife.

Concerns Over Specific Developments

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Lucy Graebe-Watson, chairwoman of Ancient Woodland UK, reported that existing protections are already proving insufficient in some cases. She noted a rise in concerns and alerts from local groups following recent planning reforms. In the East Midlands, housing demand is fuelling worries about development proposals on land bordering Chaddesden Wood Nature Reserve in Derby. Over 1,500 people have objected to plans for approximately 150 houses near the reserve, a site described as being at least 400 years old with mature trees.

Helen Cherry, a resident near Chaddesden Wood, expressed concerns that building on the edge of the woodland would isolate the site, undermining its protected status. Although Derby City Council refused the initial plans in 2025, surveyors have been observed at the site. Developers JGP Properties Limited have indicated that their assessments show no anticipated loss or deterioration of the ancient woodland or veteran trees.

In South Yorkshire, a 130-home development planned for land surrounding Gelster Wood has also generated significant opposition. Residents in Rossington, near Doncaster, are campaigning against the proposal, fearing it could permanently alter the centuries-old landscape. Over 2,000 people have supported efforts to challenge these plans. Gary Cantrill, a member of the Preserve Littleworth Lane Group, stated that residents feel their village is being targeted by developers who disregard the community and its heritage.

Concerns about flooding have also been raised, as the fields currently absorb substantial rainwater. Residents fear that developing this land could disrupt natural drainage, increasing the risk of flooding for nearby properties and roads. Ecological consultant Matt Shardlow highlighted that damage to ancient woodlands can occur even without direct tree removal. He explained that development could harm roots extending beyond the woodland boundaries, and that drainage changes could dry out trees or pollute their water sources. Noise and light pollution, along with the presence of domestic pets, could also displace sensitive species.

Official Stance and Future Protections

The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds (RSPB) acknowledged that protections for irreplaceable habitats have been strengthened under recent NPPF changes. However, Carl Bunnage, head of nature policy at the RSPB, argued that these protections remain insufficient. He described the allowance for development in 'wholly exceptional circumstances' as a potential loophole for developers, particularly in areas facing housing shortages. Bunnage suggested that planning reforms often prioritise housing and economic growth over nature conservation, questioning why ancient habitats do not receive the same level of protection as historic buildings.

A government housing department spokesperson reiterated that national planning rules explicitly state that developments causing loss or deterioration of ancient woodland should be refused. They confirmed that exceptions are very limited, primarily for nationally significant infrastructure projects, and would require compensation measures. The department also noted that a revised NPPF, published in August, includes clearer policies for assessing development proposals that affect irreplaceable habitats.