Government to review investment zones plan after criticism from New Forest National Park Authority

THE government is to review plans for investment zones, potentially in the New Forest, after concerns were raised about environmental impact.

The proposed areas would bypass what the backers have described as “burdensome” planning rules to allow the rapid construction of commercial, industrial or housing developments on any area of land.

After Solent Freeport submitted an expression of interest that could extend into parts of the New Forest, sceptical national park authority members voted unanimously to request clarification on how the proposed zones would impact protected areas.

Levelling up secretary Michael Gove said in a TV interview that he is “reviewing” the investment zones proposal put forward by former chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng.

Mr Gove added: “I’ve been very clear and the Prime Minister has been very clear that under no circumstances will we weaken environmental protections.”

A spokesperson for the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities said: “All spending decisions will be considered in the round by the PM and chancellor in the autumn statement.”