The Climate and Nature Bill, sponsored by Liberal Democrat Dr Roz Savage, only progressed to its second reading where MPs voted 120 to seven to suspend its debate.

Though several groups have applauded the intention behind this bill, this has been criticised as being the wrong approach that would stifle development through additional costs.

Brian Berry, CEO of the Federation of Master Builders, argued that though the green transition is “vital” so too is the UK’s shortage of homes.

"As we look to diversify the UK housing market away from a small number of volume builders, any additional burdens the Climate and Nature Bill will have on SME housebuilders will up their costs and restrict their ability to deliver homes,” said Brian.

“The key will be ensuring that the Climate and Nature Bill, as well as other measures to improve the environment, are well balanced to ensure growth can happen".

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Steve Turner, executive director at the Home Builders Federation, did not expect the bill to get traction but pointed out there were other ways to support the environment while also allowing housing delivery to expand.

“New homes are considerably more energy efficient than their older counterparts, delivering significant environmental benefits as we replace older stock, whilst all new sites now have to be more biodiverse post-completion than they were before development took place,” explained Steve. “

The industry continues to work with decision makers and environmental bodies to ensure we continue to drive this agenda as we strive to meet the government’s ambitious targets and address our nation's housing crisis.”

The National Property Federation added that it had worked with governments on similar policies, but highlighted these often increased taxes, lower growth or did little for the environment.

“The Government is therefore correct to head off CAN and reassess the UK’s role in solving a global challenge, while balancing the many competing domestic needs, from renewable energy and biodiversity to growth and healthy societies,” the NPF added in a statement.