In a move welcomed by environmental groups, DEFRA has pledged to restore legal safeguards for England's hedgerows following a gap left by the lapse of former EU protections.
Historically, EU regulations prohibited the cutting of hedgerows during the breeding season to protect nesting birds. The post-Brexit transition to an independent agricultural policy had left a gap in these protections until DEFRA's recent commitment.
This commitment came after a consultation from DEFRA last year where an overwhelming majority—over 95% of participants—voiced support for maintaining cutting restrictions and buffer strips. DEFRA has now committed to bring regulation into law, ensuring hedgerows are protected.
Environment Minister Rebecca Pow said:
“Hedgerows have long-shaped our beautiful countryside and provide homes for a huge variety of birds and wildlife, while delivering clear benefits for water, soil and the climate."
Despite this positive development, environmental groups are pressing the government to act quickly in bringing these regulations into law.
Alice Groom, Head of Sustainable Land Policy at RSPB, emphasised the critical timing:
"It is really positive Defra has committed to introducing the relevant legislation - but time is of the essence as the nesting season has begun."
Read the full government consultation here: UK Government's Official Consultation Outcome.
Published Tuesday 5 March 2024
Sustain: Sustain The alliance for better food and farming advocates food and agriculture policies and practices that enhance the health and welfare of people and animals, improve the working and living environment, enrich society and culture and promote equity.
