Wildlife charity, the RSPB, has launched a scathing response to what it calls 'uncharted territory' and 'an attack on nature', following the announcement of government plans for new investments zones - including in areas adjacent to the Solent.

The city of Southampton and Dorset are among 38 locations where businesses could pay lower taxes and would benefit from relaxed planning rules, to encourage rapid development.

Under the proposals, areas next to the currently protected Solent could become strategic opportunities for development.

Delivering his 'mini budget', last week, Chancellor Kwasi Kwarteng said: "The time it takes to get consent for nationally significant projects is getting slower, not quicker, while our international competitors forge ahead. We have to end this. To support growth right across the country, we need to go further, with targeted action in local areas."

Isle of Wight County Press: RSPB said: "This map shows legally protected areas in purple and orange mapped on to districts, in green, that want investment zones."RSPB said: "This map shows legally protected areas in purple and orange mapped on to districts, in green, that want investment zones." (Image: RSPB.)

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The invesment zones would run alongside the Solent Freeport scheme, alreading promising lower taxes and less red tape.

In a serious of tweets, the RSPB said: "Make no mistake, we are angry.

"Wildlife is facing one of the greatest threats it’s faced in decades.

"If they carry out their plans, nowhere will be safe.

"Investment zones [are] places where anything could be built anywhere. And these are just the start.

"The new Retained EU Laws Bill could see the end of basic protections known as the Habitat Regulations. Laws that protect our birds and animals, everywhere from forests to our coasts.

"Where you live, the wildlife and places you love, from the shires to the cities – all under threat from bulldozers, from concrete."

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Adding its response, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust tweeted: "Make no mistake - we are also incredibly angry. We stand with @RSPBEngland in calling out the unprecedented attack on nature launched by UK Government over the last few days.

"We’ll be challenging this together and asking for our supporters to stand with us."

HM Treasury said: "The government has agreement in principle with 38 areas to establish tax-cutting Investment Zones which will drive growth & unlock housing development."