UK Treasury eases bat protection for economic growth

The UK Treasury announced a change in bat protection guidelines, stating that local planning officers will no longer be required to read specific guidance from the Bat Conservation Trust. This decision aims to reduce red tape for economic growth. Environmentalists criticized the move, claiming it undermines bat conservation efforts. They argue that the government is incorrectly suggesting that bats hinder economic development. The announcement follows a broader initiative by Chancellor Rachel Reeves to streamline regulations. A controversial £100 million bat tunnel was previously built for the HS2 rail project.