Judy Terry: In the hot weather, fires can cause terrible destruction to our natural habitat

A shockingly large number are caused by arsonists. There should be an award events for those who help to combat this menace.

Alex Dale: In defence of localism – how proposed fracking changes offend core Conservative values

We have a civic duty to uphold and defend our collective natural inheritance. The planning system is not flawless but it has an important role.

Matthew Offord: Ministers must go further to make the ‘Blue Belt’ a reality

The current rules blur the line between fishing waters and properly-protected areas, and our Overseas Territories need more support.

James Brokenshire: Our new planning framework for quality as well as quantity

As Sir Roger Scruton notes: “Architecture is a public art: whether we like it or not, we are forced to witness it.”

Alan Jarrett: Medway is a Conservative success story

We boast the lowest council tax in Kent by a significant margin and retain our grammar schools. We are also revitalising derelict waterfronts.

Syed Kamall: This time round, I’m not seeking to stand. But here’s an agenda for a Conservative Mayor of London.

Rather than “one size fits all” directives from City Hall we must allow local communities to have the chance to innovate.

Andrew Potter: Attractive new homes can also be energy efficient

We offer social housing with traditional design and also saving our tenants around £500 a year on fuel bills. The Government should back this approach.

Chris Grayling: After so long a wait, let’s get on with it – and vote emphatically today for expansion at Heathrow

Today, Parliament can play a huge part in helping us achieve that post-Brexit vision, securing the long-term connections the country needs.

Councils have sold off 4,000 surplus assets in the past year. That is not nearly enough.

Far from being a loss to the community they are more often derelict buildings and surplus land which can be used for housing.

Charlotte Salomon: New lamps for old – renewable energy mustn’t be left on the back-burner

If we want to signal a commitment to sustainable, low-carbon growth strategies, the Government could introduce a green sovereign bond.

Sam Richards: Gove is doing good work for our planet and our Party, but it’s just the beginning

The third piece in our mini-series assessing his performance at DEFRA argues that he is a worthy heir to Tory environmentalism.

Rebecca Newsom: Are Gove’s green words taking root?

This second piece in our mini-series assessing his performance at DEFRA argues that he has taken a few strong first steps – but that real results are needed.

Julian Jessop: Gove’s report card – A for diligence, A for engagement, B for attainment. So far.

In the first of a mini-series assessing his performance at DEFRA, Gove’s willingness to challenge mighty vested interests is put to the test.

Simone Finn: The Government must name its price on the Swansea Bay tidal lagoon

If Ministers believe that 30p on annual bills is too high a price, they should seek the right number – and a deal to get us there.

Teresa O’Neill: Earning Bexley’s trust

We never forget we are spending our residents’ money. We have delivered new homes and we have kept our borough clean and green.