The UK government has unveiled plans to protect English hedgerows through new domestic regulations, following a consultation conducted last year. The proposed regulations, supported by over 95% of consultation responses, aim to safeguard the ecological importance of hedgerows while providing continuity for farmers and land managers.
Key provisions of the regulations include a two-metre ‘buffer strip’ from the centre of hedgerows, prohibiting cultivation or the application of pesticides or fertilisers within this area. Additionally, a hedge cutting ban will be enforced between 1 March and 31 August to safeguard nesting birds during their breeding season.
The enforcement approach will prioritize fair and proportionate outcomes, offering farmers advice and support to ensure compliance with the regulations, marking a departure from previous enforcement methods.
These regulations seek to reinforce the conservation efforts of many farmers who have been actively managing hedgerows to provide vital ecological benefits. Hedgerows serve as wildlife habitats, aid in soil erosion prevention, regulate water run-off, support crop pollinators, and contribute to carbon absorption.
Farming Minister Mark Spencer expressed gratitude to farmers for their longstanding efforts in hedgerow preservation and highlighted the significant uptake of support and guidance offered through government schemes such as Countryside Stewardship and Sustainable Farming Incentive.
The consultation received almost 9,000 responses, with clear backing from farmers and environmental groups for the protection of hedgerows in law.
Environment Minister Rebecca Pow emphasized the ecological significance of hedgerows, underscoring their role in providing habitats for diverse wildlife and delivering environmental benefits for water, soil, and climate.
The new regulations, to be introduced pending Parliamentary approval, will be overseen by the Rural Payments Agency (RPA), which will provide guidance to farmers. The RPA will have the authority to implement civil and criminal sanctions against those causing significant or repeated damage to hedgerows.
The government intends to collaborate with farmers and environmental groups to develop statutory guidance for enforcing the regulations. These regulations will complement existing legislation, including the Hedgerows Regulations 1997 and the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, which protect hedgerows and wildlife habitats.