During a contentious debate in the House of Commons, Taunton and Wellington MP Gideon Amos was labeled a “NIMBY” by Housing Secretary Steve Reed. The term, short for “Not In My Back Yard,” is often used to describe those who oppose local housing developments but might support similar projects elsewhere.
Mr. Amos, the Liberal Democrats' housing and communities spokesperson, has been a vocal critic of the Labour government’s planning reforms. Representing his constituency since July 2024, he condemned the government’s approach for threatening green spaces, particularly highlighting potential development near the Wellington Monument on the edge of the Blackdown Hills.
In response, Mr. Reed, representing Streatham and Croydon North and appointed as Housing Secretary in September 2025, accused Amos and his party of blocking opportunities for affordable housing for young people. He argued that the Lib Dems were “slamming the door shut” on those struggling to secure homes amid the national housing crisis.
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Amos countered by emphasizing the importance of protecting Somerset’s cherished green spaces while balancing the need for new housing. He criticized the government’s recent National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) for centralizing planning powers and weakening local protections. Amos pointed out that the proposed reforms would prioritize sustainable development over Local Plans, putting vulnerable natural areas at risk.
Reed clarified that his criticism was directed at Amos and the Liberal Democrats, not those concerned about preserving green belt land. He acknowledged that green belt protections remain but stressed the urgency of accelerating the notoriously slow UK planning system to deliver homes more quickly. He lamented the doubling of families in temporary accommodation and street homelessness under the previous government and underlined the need for a fair balance between community rights and housing demands.
The National Trust, owners of the Wellington Monument, has launched the ‘nature equals future’ campaign, urging the government to recognize nature’s vital role in the UK’s well-being and prosperity. The charity is encouraging the public to support policies that protect natural spaces while addressing the housing crisis.
This high-profile parliamentary exchange highlights the persistent tensions between development and conservation, reflecting the complex challenges policymakers face in balancing housing needs with environmental preservation.