The Ramblers' Association (RA) fears a major threat to the green belt if the government acts on the recommendations made in Barker Review released today (5 December 2006).
Kate Barker today published her final report on the Land Use Planning System in England.
Although the national walking organisation welcomes her suggestion that new accessible parkland or woodland should be created, which may help protect land of high environmental and social value, it fears that plans for a radical overhaul of the planning system for major infrastructure projects will involve more encroachment of the green belt.
One of the RA's chief charitable aims is the protection of the countryside. It feels there is a major danger that further centralisation of the planning system will impose damaging developments on local communities without their consent.
It also feels that massive developments such as out-of-town shopping centres, remote housing with no public transport, and more airports and road building discourages walking and the sense of community it provides.
Patrick Grady, Countryside Protection Manager, at the RA said: "What big businesses and developers see as red tape and bureaucracy, members of the public around the country see as vital local democracy and participation. Our precious countryside is already under pressure from noise, pollution, road building, greenfield and out-of-town development and needs protecting now more than ever."
He added: "Sensible investment in public transport, revitalising town centres and genuine co-operation with local communities are needed to ensure the country can achieve real sustainable development. Encouraging people to walk more for recreation and as a means of transport is not only good for health but will reduce carbon emissions."
