Campaigners warn that England’s push to build 1.5 million homes by the end of 2029 could increase pressure on ancient woodlands, which planning rules say should be developed on or near only in “wholly exceptional circumstances.” The government says the habitats remain subject to strong protections, but a BBC review found dozens of planned developments immediately beside woods.
The concerns come as the government’s “grey belt” policy allows development on some lower-quality open land previously covered by green belt rules. Ancient Woodland UK chair Lucy Graebe-Watson said local groups had raised more concerns since recent planning reforms and that existing protections were already struggling in some cases.
One example is a development of 450 homes approved within yards of Hook Wood in Gillingham, Kent. Residents fear it could harm local wildlife. Ancient woodland is defined as land that has been continuously wooded since at least 1600 and is considered an irreplaceable habitat.
In Derby, more than 1,500 people have objected to proposals for about 150 homes bordering Chaddesden Wood Nature Reserve. Derby City Council rejected the plans in 2025, though residents said surveyors were seen at the site over the summer and fear the developer may submit revised proposals. JGP Properties said its assessments showed there would be no loss or deterioration of the ancient woodland or veteran trees.
Residents in Rossington, near Doncaster, are also opposing a proposed 130-home development on land around Gelster Wood. More than 2,000 people have supported efforts to challenge the plans. Local campaigners have raised concerns about the effect on the historic landscape and the risk of flooding if fields that absorb rainwater are built over.
Ecological consultant Matt Shardlow said nearby construction could harm woodland even if trees were not removed. He cited possible damage to roots, changes to drainage that could dry out trees or pollute water supplies, and noise and light that could drive sensitive species away. Albemarle Homes said the woodland was not part of its original development site and that any future proposals would have to meet environmental rules.
The Royal Society for the Protection of Birds said recent changes to the National Planning Policy Framework had improved protections for irreplaceable habitats, but its nature policy head, Carl Bunnage, argued they remained inadequate. He said allowing development in “wholly exceptional circumstances” could create a loophole, particularly where housing is scarce, and that policies supporting growth can outweigh nature conservation.
The Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government said national planning rules state that proposals causing the loss or deterioration of ancient woodland should be refused. It said exceptions are very limited, applying to some nationally significant infrastructure projects, and require compensation measures. The department added that a revised framework published in August set out clearer policies for proposals affecting irreplaceable habitats.
Sources: BBC News UK.