Member

I start by setting the scene as to why this is required. I am conscious that there is a broad debate to be had about Part 3, but I am not going to open that Pandora’s box now—I can tell the Government Chief Whip that there is plenty of time for that, so there is no need to worry. For some initial context, since the 1970’s nature and wildlife have suffered significant decline; our woodlands face challenges, and street trees too have faced decline. Research from 2023 showed that 43% of neighbourhoods in England have less than 10% tree canopy cover, while 84% have less than 20% coverage. I am afraid to say that there is significant regional variation across England. This is not just about biodiversity and nature but the combined benefit that it brings to us too.