The Government's decision to delay the next stage of its controversial Planning Bill, following widespread concerns about the impact it would have on the environment, has been welcomed by Friends of the Earth.

Friends of the Earth's planning campaigner, Hugh Ellis said;

"The Planning Bill is an environmental disaster. The Government wants to fast-track major developments - such as airports, roads and power stations - through the planning system without considering their impact on climate change and with little regard for local opinion. Ministers must listen to the mounting concern, and put people and the planet at the heart of our planning system."

ENDS

For further information about Friends of the Earth, please visit www.foe.co.uk .