Planning and biodiversity

The planning system plays an important role in helping to protect the natural environment. This is secured in planning policy and legislation relating to biodiversity.

As a planning authority, we have an enhanced Biodiversity Duty to conserve and enhance biodiveristy. This includes considering the impact on the local natural environment (including habitats, biodiversity and geology) when deciding planning applications. For us to do this effectively, you may have to submit ecological surveys or assessments with your planning application.

The Green Infrastructure Strategy has also been Adopted by the Council.  This will provide advice on needs and opportunities for the protection of Green Infrastructure in the District. The Strategy is embedded into the emerging Local Plan, and there is particular reference in Local Plan Policy SP14 which states that development will be required to provide on-site green infrastructure that connects to off-site networks.