Phosphates now preventing development in Cornwall

We have previously reported that guidance issued by Natural England to Somerset local authorities has led to a moratorium on development until phosphates neutrality can be achieved. Similar guidance has now been issued to Cornwall Council in relation to development in the River Camel Special Area of Conservation. Consequently, Cornwall Council is temporarily pausing decision making for all planning applications in the River Camel catchment area. This will also affect reserved matters applications, some prior notification applications and some discharge of condition applications. Cornwall Council will not be the last local authority to receive this guidance.

We have recently successfully advised the Comeytrowe Consortium on a phosphates mitigation solution for their urban extension in Taunton alongside our consultant colleagues Dean Swann of Brookbanks, Matt Jones of EAD and Lawrence Turner of Boyer. Foot Anstey have also advised developers of substantial housing sites in Kent together with national house builders and housing associations in the Solent in relation to nitrates neutrality solutions.

Please contact Tim Taylor or Christian Silk to discuss the implication of Natural England's guidance on the projects that you are involved with.