Good news for the Gwent Levels

We have been following the progress of the Whitson SSSI public inquiry which, in short, was hearing an appeal into a refusal to give retrospective planning permission for an aerodrome on Upfield Farm on the Gwent Levels in South Wales. We have now heard that the appeal has been refused.  The aerodrome is simply an example of unauthorised development.  Our primary concern was the possible impact of this developing airfield on the nearby SSSI and more widely across the Gwent Levels and Severn Estuary Special Protection Area.  The inspector found clear reasons for refusal without the need to come to a view on the potential impact on the area's wildlife.  The inspector's report did make it clear that this unauthorised development was out of keeping with the ancient landscape of the Gwent Levels.  All in all, this is an outcome that we welcome.   What of the future?  The Gwent Level's landscape, history and wildlife make it a fragile and special place, this decision couples with the recent dropping of the M4 relief road should signal a new future for the Levels - one that embraces its qualities and moves away from seeing it as an area ripe for unsustainable development.