THE Government has to act to tackle climate change, say environmental bosses. And Prime Minister Tony Blair agrees. He said: 'If left unchecked, climate change has the potential to be catastrophic in both human and economic terms.'
However, the Cheshire branch of the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) says the Government is doing too little too late.
A spokesman said: 'It's no use the Government just talking about climate change - it has to act. It is totally contradictory promoting aviation growth and more road-building at the same time as claiming to want to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.'
The CPRE's comments came in the wake of two recently published documents.
The first, the North West Regional Spatial Strategy, sets out how much and what kind of development will take place, and where, across the North West for the next 15 years. It includes strategies and statutory plans for housing, transport and economic growth.
The second, the UK Climate Change Programme Review, details Government plans to bring down greenhouse gas emissions.
Climate change in the North West is likely to lead to drier summers and wetter winters, with increased likelihood of flooding and extreme storms.
The CPRE says there will be major impacts on North West cities and businesses, as well as on agriculture and tourism, and severe pressure placed on vulnerable ecosystems, landscapes and species.
The spokesman said: 'The Regional Spatial Strategy is the best chance we've got to make sure that the North West is prepared for the effects of climate change.'
It recognises climate change as 'an urgent regional priority'.
The Regional Spatial Strategy is open for public consultation until June 12. Visit www.cpre.org.uk.
