Environmental groups have raised concerns over a proposed Norfolk developer levy intended to fund nature restoration and unlock new housing.
Environmental groups have raised concerns over government plans to introduce a new nature levy on housing developers in Norfolk.
Under the proposed Environmental Delivery Plan, developers would pay a flat contribution of £2,675 for each new home.
The government says the scheme could help unlock up to 15,780 homes which have been affected by restrictions designed to protect sensitive rivers and wetlands from nutrient pollution.
Money raised through the levy would be administered by Natural England and spent on measures including creating wetlands, restoring rivers and managing fens and reedbeds.
Around £42 million could be raised if all of the proposed homes go ahead.
However, ecology experts have questioned whether the measures will address the underlying sources of pollution entering Norfolk’s waterways.
The Chartered Institute of Ecology and Environmental Management says habitat improvements could provide environmental benefits but warns they may not prevent additional pollution reaching rivers.
The plan covers areas including the River Wensum and the Bure and Yare Broads and Marshes.
Ministers say the new system would replace more fragmented mitigation arrangements and deliver conservation work on a larger scale.
The proposals are currently subject to public consultation before a final Environmental Delivery Plan is agreed.
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