Boris Johnson's lavish swimming pool plans hampered by protected species crested newts

Newts have created a big problem for ex-UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson. His plans to develop the recently purchased 17-century chateau into a modern home have been jeopardized. His plans to construct a pool at the Oxfordshire house have been hampered due to the presence of newts there.

Boris Johnson In Trouble

A council officer has objected to the proposed construction warning that the newts may be impacted. He has also advised the council not to grant the planning permission.

Boris Johnson Moves To New House

Boris Jhonson moved to the new house in May. It has nine bedrooms and a tennis room, and it is surrounded on three sides by a moat.

Council Officer Opposes Boris Johnson's Plans

Opposing the plan to develop the house, South and Vale Countryside Officer Edward Church said that it falls “within the red zones with the highest danger to the crested newts.” He said that a survey of the protected species should be conducted before granting permission.

Boris Johnson’s Nemesis Newts?

The crested newts have been declared a protected species in Europe and it is a crime to kill or injure or capture the species as well as disturb their nesting place. Government agency Natural England has expressed concerns over the falling population of crested newts in the last sixty years. It has also warned that the developers should be asked to take appropriate measures to mitigate the negative effects on the amphibians.

Archaeological Service Against Boris Johnson Plans

The County Archaeological Service of the council has also said that the site is a place of archaeological interest, and it is believed to be the place of a 12th-century moat.

FAQs:

Q1. What did Natural England say about the crested newts?
A1. Government agency Natural England has expressed concerns over the falling population of crested newts in the last sixty years. It has also warned that the developers should be asked to take appropriate measures to mitigate the negative effects on the amphibians.

Q2. What the County Archaeological Service of the council has said about the newts?
A2. The County Archaeological Service of the council has also said that the site is a place of archaeological interest, and it is believed to be the place of a 12th-century moat.