CPRE Bedfordshire’s response to Rachel Reeves’ speech – January 2025
CPRE Bedfordshire are disappointed to see Rachel Reeves prioritising economic growth over the environment, particularly in the midst of the climate emergency. Her lack of understanding of the vital role nature plays in underpinning the economy and mitigating the impact of climate change is evident and deeply worrying.
We are concerned about her support for the Ox-Cam Arc, East West Rail and the proposed “Silicon Valley” which will cause large areas of environmental destruction, opening up the countryside for more development. You can read more about CPRE’s concerns over the Ox-Cam Arc in the policy document at the bottom of this page.
We await a decision on the expansion of London-Luton Airport – if implemented this would have a devastating impact on carbon emissions and the environment.
As an organisation that works closely with local communities, we are increasingly unhappy with the government’s negativity towards those people who work to protect their environment, (so called “Nimbys”) which is both disrespectful and undemocratic.
CPRE Bedfordshire will continue to campaign on the Ox-Cam Arc and East West Rail. We will support local action groups to ensure that people have a say in what happens in their local community, helping them to protect our precious countryside which benefits us all.
Find out more about our work in these areas
Ox-Cam and East West Rail hub.
Working with local action groups.
CPRE policy on the Oxford-Cambridge Arc (PDF)
We’ll keep standing up for the Bedfordshire countryside. Want to stand with us? Sign up now for monthly news on our work or join us as a member from just £5 a month.
