ACE Group is urging ministers and MPs to back Amendment 130 when the Planning and Infrastructure Bill returns to the House of Commons this week. 

The amendment, passed decisively in the House of Lords with strong cross-party support (258 votes to 139), is a crucial safeguard to ensure that Environmental Delivery Plans (EDPs) are used for their originally intended purpose — to apply strategic approaches to tackling diffuse and cumulative environmental challenges such as nutrient pollution, air quality and water management. 

ACE Group - which comprises the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE) and the Environmental Industries Commission (EIC), warns that without the amendment, EDPs could be applied more widely to individual protected sites and species, discouraging positive action by responsible developers and undermining the government’s ambitions for sustainable growth and environmental recovery. 

Representing over 470,000 professionals and contributing more than £39bn to the UK economy, the consultancy and engineering sector plays a central role in delivering sustainable infrastructure and driving innovation. ACE Group members bring world-leading expertise in environmental technology, infrastructure planning and design - helping the UK compete globally while achieving its climate and nature goals. 

ACE Group has welcomed government’s efforts to bring in strategic approaches to environmental mitigation but believes for specific habitats and species, EDPs are not appropriate. However, it stands ready to continue to collaborate on developing solutions that work for both nature and development within the existing legislative framework. 

ACE Group chief executive, Kate Jennings, said: “Amendment 130 is about balance. It keeps Environmental Delivery Plans focused on the big picture - strategic challenges where collective action delivers real improvements for nature and communities - while giving business the certainty and confidence to invest and grow. 

“We share the government’s ambition to build a prosperous, sustainable Britain. Supporting Amendment 130 is a clear signal that the UK can lead on green growth - protecting our environment while unlocking the homes, infrastructure and jobs our communities need. 

“ACE Group is calling on all parliamentarians to stand with industry, stand with nature, and support Amendment 130 to ensure the Planning and Infrastructure Bill delivers for people, planet and prosperity”.