We support the ‘Proposed policy direction’ as outlined in the GC LP ‘First proposals’ document to provide green open space on new developments for recreation and socialising, while noting that these spaces should be multifunctional and provide opportunities for food growing, community orchards and space for nature. The latter is important to have on site to help provide a good environment and contribute to the widely recognised health benefits of green vegetation close to homes.
However, for maximum benefit to wildlife and people, it is important to retain and provide quality native species green infrastructure (as opposed to miniature ornamentals) in the area immediately around houses, rather than houses being marooned in an area of largely hard landscaping or green open space separated from islands of higher value green space around the edges. On many new housing developments, the landscaping close to homes tends to consist mainly of miniature ornamentals, which are often of little value for nature and are cut back so hard in maintenance regimes that they provide little green vegetation to enhance the appearance of the limited open space.
However, the enrichment of the habitat with some native species hedges and shrubs or non-natives known to be of benefit to wildlife (see reference below) close to homes will attract a wider range of birds into local green spaces and gardens. Provided these shrubs are maintained appropriately, to allow good growth and seasonal flowering and fruiting, they will provide good habitat for a wide range of invertebrates, birds and small mammals For sparrows in particular, hedges and shrubs for shelter are very important close to potential nest sites, such as in newly installed swift nest bricks. This would also provide a more pleasant environment to support the health and wellbeing of residents. These issues are particularly important where most of the quality biodiversity enhancement for a development is proposed either relatively remote from the main blocks of housing or are even in the form of financial contributions for off-site provision.
An excellent recent report produced by the NHBC Foundation from a collaboration with the RSPB and Barratt Developments gives significant guidance on these issues on page 29 onwards.
NHBC Foundation, Report NF 89, ‘Biodiversity in new housing developments: creating wildlife-friendly communities’ (April 2021). Available at:
Biodiversity in new housing developments: creating wildlife-friendly communities - NHBC Foundation

Submitted on behalf of:
Action for Swifts; Fulbourn Swifts; Over and Swavesey Swift Conservation Project 2020