Strategy 'threatens green belt'

First Edition

Environmentalists engaged in battle with the promoters of major transport infrastructure schemes as public inquiries opened in Birmingham and Manchester yesterday. Supporters of the plans say they are vital for the prosperity of the regions, but the fierce campaigns being mounted against them mean both inquiries are set to last well into next year.

Roger Higman, of Friends of the Earth, said: 'These conflicts are inevitable if the Government continues to pursue a development strategy that requires new infrastructure in the green belt around our cities.'