Oppose Plans to Scrap Archaeology in the Cambridgeshire Fens

Cllr Alan Melton, Leader of Fenland Council, Cambridgeshire, recently announced that from July 1st 2011, developers would no longer be required to observe the archaeological and heritage requirements of planning conditions.  He went on to say,

"Any surveys “that are currently in the pipeline and that are not currently subject to litigation but are giving grief can be discarded - tomorrow morning.

”Relaxation of rules around sustainability and listed buildings still meant retaining a sustainable and practical approach.

“But we won’t dwell too much on the scriptures of the new religion,” said Mr Melton.

“I don’t believe the Polar Bears will be floating down the Nene in my life time or indeed my children’s.”

Mr Melton described communities who resist growth as Nimbys and said the council’s message was: “No growth equals no investment”.

(as reported at www.edp24.co.uk/news/development_rules_relaxed_in_the_fens_but_the_bunny_huggers_won_t_like_it_warns_council_leader_1_929730;  25/06/2011)

Online votes on both the www.edp24.co.uk and the www.cambstimes.co.uk websites have indicated upwards of 90% opposition to the move highlighted in Cllr Melton's statement.

Cllr Melton's views have been met with dismay and anger by heritage professionals, individuals and groups with an interest in heritage, archaeology and the environment.  The Fens is home to nationally important archaeology and a delicately balanced natural environment.  If you disagree with Cllr Melton's comments and oppose the relaxation of rules governing development control in the Cambridgeshire Fens, please sign this petition.

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