James Wild MP has criticised Labour MPs for voting against proposals to strengthen protections for Norfolk’s rare chalk streams during the passage of the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. An advocate for these natural ecosystems, James has described the decision as a setback for efforts to preserve a vital part of the UK’s natural heritage.
Chalk streams, often referred to as “England’s rainforests”, are among the rarest river ecosystems in the world, with around 85% of the 200 known streams located in the UK, including the Nar, Gaywood, Babingley in North West Norfolk. However, these rivers are increasingly threatened by pollution, over-extraction, and climate change.
The proposed amendment to the Bill would have required authorities to adopt new strategies to better protect chalk streams. Environmental groups have also criticised Labour’s decision to block the measure, calling it a missed opportunity to strengthen legal safeguards.
As a passionate campaigner for protecting the environment and wildlife, James has consistently championed Norfolk’s chalk streams and environmental protections, supporting record investment, tougher penalties for polluters, and innovative projects like the Ingoldisthorpe wetland, which naturally treats wastewater.
James Wild MP said:
“I have long campaigned to enhance Norfolk’s precious chalk streams and supported action taken by the last Conservative government to do that. So it is very disappointing that Labour MPs voted against taking further steps to ensure their protection in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill. While Labour claim to support our natural environment when given the chance they failed to do so.”
