Changes to nutrient neutrality in England

In 2019 and 2022, Natural England issued planning advice to 74 local planning authorities for 31 sites spanning 27 river catchments in unfavourable condition due to nutrient pollution. Building projects and plans may only go ahead if they will not cause additional pollution, referred to as ‘nutrient neutrality’. Nutrient neutrality does not seek to reduce the nutrient pollution levels affecting protected sites, but to limit future increases from development. The Commons Library briefing Nutrient neutrality and housing development explains how the previous government proposed to reduce the effects of nutrient pollution on protected sites. Excess nitrogen and phosphorus nutrients arising from point sources, such as sewage effluent, and diffuse sources, such as agricultural activities, affect soil, wildlife, air and water quality as they move through the environment, as well as emitting greenhouse gases. This includes impacts on freshwater and coastal habitats protected under the Habitats Regulations. The Planning and Infrastructure Bill provides for a new approach to nutrient neutrality by creating Environmental Delivery Plans, funded by levies paid into the Nature Restoration Fund.