In December, members of the High Peak Biodiversity Network met with Jon Pearce MP at Sunart Fields in Whaley Bridge.
The visit took place at the rewilding project run by Rachel and Geoff Evatt, and was attended by them plus Dave Savage, Landscape Recovery Manager at Derbyshire Wildlife Trust.
The meeting aimed to share the Network’s views and concerns with the MP on a range of environmental and nature-related issues. These included concerns about the complexity of schemes designed to enhance nature, such as Biodiversity Net Gain, as well as the suspension of some funding intended to help farms protect and restore the natural environment.
Issues around Inheritance Tax for farmers, farm viability and food security were also discussed, alongside concerns that the government’s Planning and Infrastructure Bill could weaken protections for important habitats and rare species.
Mr Pearce spent a significant part of the afternoon with the group, listening to the views of those committed to protecting and enhancing the environment. Members also stressed that development and the protection of nature can, and should, go hand in hand.
During the visit, the MP planted a young sapling, adding to the 40,000 trees already planted at Sunart Fields.
Anyone interested in joining the High Peak Biodiversity Network or finding out more can visit www.buxtonfieldclub.org.uk/contact
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