Our response to the Consultation on proposed amendments to The Heather and Grass etc. Burning (England) Regulations 2021

The Heather Trust has responded to Defra’s consultation on amendments to The Heather and Grass etc. Burning (England) Regulations 2021, raising serious concerns about the potential impact on moorland management, wildfire risk, and biodiversity. Our recent Heather Futures report highlights alarming rates of moorland loss across the UK — equivalent to the size of Birmingham disappearing each year. We believe the proposed changes could make responsible burning more difficult, despite its proven role in habitat management and wildfire prevention. Additionally, calls to align England's approach with Scotland's overlook the fact that Scotland’s regulatory framework is not yet finalised and is still under active review.