The Government has announced funding of £47 million to 'unlock' 28,000 nutrient neutrality stalled homes across England.

The Local Nutrient Mitigation Fund will ensure building the homes will not come at the expense of the environment, as local rivers and precious habitats are protected.

Seven areas across the country will benefit from a share of £45 million to unblock stalled housing, with 20 of the largest sites impacted by nutrient neutrality within these councils receiving a further £100,000 to support planning teams who will implement pollution solutions.

The areas to benefit from the funding are:

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• Norfolk Broads and the River Wensum: £8.8 million to unlock over 6000 new homes 

• River Axe: £4 million to unlock around 1000 new homes 

• The Solent: nearly £7 million to unlock over 2700 new homes 

• River Wye: over £2.7 million to unlock over 3000 new homes 

• River Mease: over £2.5 million to unlock over 700 new homes  

• River Lambourn: over £2.4 million to unlock over 800 new homes 

• River Eden, River Derwent and Bassenthwaite Lake, River Kent and Esthwaite Water Catchment:

The Local Nutrient Mitigation Fund will boost housebuilding through locally led schemes, such as creating new wetlands and upgrading septic tanks, to enable development is sustainable. 

Nutrient pollution is an urgent problem in areas across England, with increased levels of nitrogen and phosphorous damaging natural habitats and harming wildlife.

This can impact housebuilding in areas where the waterways are affected by excess nutrient pollution.

Housing and Planning Minister Matthew Pennycook said:  "We must build more homes across the country and unlock growth, but this must not come at the expense of our natural environment.  

"Through this fund and alongside major reforms to the planning system, we will accelerate housebuilding and deliver nature recovery, creating a win-win outcome for both the economy and for nature."

Environment Minister Mary Creagh added: "Britain faces a housing and nature crisis. This new Government was elected with a mandate to get Britain building again and restore nature. That is why we will deliver a planning system that unlocks the building of homes and improves outcomes for nature."