Campaigners are warning that a push to build more homes in England could endanger some of the country's oldest woodlands, even with protections in place. The government's pledge to build 1.5 million new homes by the end of 2029, coupled with the introduction of the "grey belt"—land designated for development—is increasing pressure on these ancient sites.
Ancient woodlands are defined as habitats that have existed continuously since at least the year 1600. Environmental groups describe them as irreplaceable and vital for biodiversity. Current planning policy states that these woodlands can only be built upon or near in "wholly exceptional circumstances," such as for major infrastructure projects like HS2.
However, the BBC has identified numerous sites where planned housing developments are located adjacent to ancient woodlands. In Kent, approved plans for 450 homes near Hook Wood have sparked fears among residents about the impact on local wildlife. Lucy Graebe-Watson, chairwoman of Ancient Woodland UK, noted a rise in concerns from local groups following recent planning reforms, suggesting existing protections are struggling to prevent encroachment.
Similar anxieties exist in the East Midlands, where proposals for approximately 150 houses bordering Chaddesden Wood Nature Reserve in Derby have drawn over 1,500 objections. Residents are concerned that developing the land would isolate the wood, diminishing its status as a nature reserve. Developers JGP Properties Limited stated their assessments show no loss or deterioration of ancient woodland.
Environmental organizations argue that the "wholly exceptional circumstances" clause acts as a loophole for developers, particularly in areas facing housing shortages. Carl Bunnage, head of nature policy at the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, believes that housing and economic growth policies often outweigh nature conservation efforts in planning decisions.
In South Yorkshire, a proposed 130-home development near Gelster Wood has initiated a campaign with over 2,000 supporters. Residents fear the loss of historic farmland and increased flood risk, as the fields currently absorb significant rainwater. Ecological consultant Matt Shardlow cautioned that development could damage ancient woodland roots, alter drainage, pollute water sources, and disturb wildlife through noise and light pollution.
Developers Albemarle Homes stated that any future plans would adhere to environmental regulations, and the woodland itself was not part of the original site. A spokesperson for the government's housing department reiterated that national planning rules explicitly aim to prevent the loss or deterioration of ancient woodland, with limited exceptions only for nationally significant infrastructure projects that require compensation. They added that a revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) published in August includes clearer policies for assessing development proposals affecting irreplaceable habitats.