Building houses should be put first ahead of measures to protect Norfolk's rivers, a senior councillor has said.
Sam Chapman-Allen, leader of Breckland Council has attacked the controversial nutrient neutrality laws which have blocked thousands of homes being built in Norfolk.
It comes amid growing debate on the issue, after the government's attempt to scrap the eco-rules was blocked by the House of Lords.
The Conservative leader argues that these policies should not be "at a detriment" to those who need homes.
Mr Chapman-Allen was quizzed by Labour opposition leader Terry Jermy at a full council meeting as to whether he would lobby to make sure Breckland's "rivers are protected" if the government pushed to get rid of the laws again.
READ MORE: Norfolk house price warning due to nutrient neutrality
He said he would not despite Mr Jermy's claims the effect of sewage and pollution on Breckland's waterways was a pressing concern for people in Breckland.
READ MORE: Government bids to rip up eco-laws
"My view is it is not the district council's responsibility to deal with those activities," said Mr Chapman-Allen.
"I'm sure you'll be acutely aware of the housing challenges we are facing. Yesterday we had 118 individuals in temporary accommodation.
"Nutrient neutrality has paused housing growth across Breckland and the county.
READ MORE: Where 'chemical cocktails' are polluting Norfolk's rivers
"I absolutely acknowledge the environment has a really important role to play but I don't think it should be at a detriment to those who need much-needed homes.
"I will not be lobbying the government to not roll back on nutrient neutrality but I will be lobbying for the government to hold the agencies responsible to account to ensure they deliver on their responsibilities."
Nutrient neutrality laws have been a bugbear for Mr Chapman-Allen, who has joined other leaders in piling pressure on Rishi Sunak to scrap the rules amid fears it could add up to £10,000 to the price tag of new Norfolk homes.
As the debate continues, a recent report by the Lords Built Environment Committee has claimed the government is failing to deliver "for either side” in its approach to competing demands for new homes and environmental protection.
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