Revealed: full list of councils set to be affected by nutrient neutrality rules

The names of 42 councils to be hit by proposed nutrient neutrality rules that could severely hinder housing development have been obtained from the government by Housing Today.

Below is the list of councils that will be affected if the nutrient neutrality rules go ahead. The government released a consultation paper this week, which suggested all the below councils would not be able to allow developments that would lead to higher levels of phosphorous and nitrates in waterways.

There are already 32 councils affected and the government extended this by 42 more this week (see full list below)

Housebuilders have warned the rules could stop the development of tens of thousands of homes. The government has however said it is going to look at ways to ensure development can still go ahead.

It will offer £100,000 in funding to each affected catchment. This money will help councils work together to ensure ‘nutrient neutrality’ is achieved while allowing development to continue. 

Source: Department for Environment, Food & Rural Affairs

Natural England also published a ‘nutrient calculator’ to enable development to take place in a “sustainable way”.

Darren Rodwell, environment spokesperson for the Local Government Association, said: “Ensuring that environmental protection is at the heart of planning policy is a priority for all local authorities. There are no easy answers and solutions need to be tailored to each area. Government can help by working with councils to review housing targets, where this is appropriate, and the LGA and the Planning Advisory Service will work with councils to find solutions and we support the additional funding for catchment areas.”

He added that local development plans were the “key to successful and sustainable growth” and that the LGA is “seeking a position within the ministerial taskforce on this issue, to help the government deliver on a plan that works for all.”

The House Builders Federation this week warned ten of thousands of homes could be on hold if nutrient neutrality rule goes ahead.

James Stevens, director for cities at the HBF, said: “We have calculated that 60,000 homes have been delayed across 32 local authority areas before the addition today of a further 42 local authorities.

“We are urging government to agree proportionate measures that reflect the contribution of housing delivery to the issue without delay. The situation has already been ongoing for some years and it is imperative that solutions are agreed and implemented urgently.”