Comment
Greater Cambridge Local Plan Preferred Options
Representation ID: 57905
Received: 12/12/2021
Respondent: Martin Grant Homes
Agent: Savills
4.35. As per the aims of Policy BG/TC, it is certainly beneficial to increase tree and woodland cover from 7.4% to 19% by the 2050s, but care should also be taken in determining how/if this approach is consistent with maximising net biodiversity gains. For example, it is known that peat bog, bramble scrub and lowland meadows have a greater value in biodiversity than blanket tree cover. A mosaic of habitat creation is therefore preferred over blanket tree cover with the range of habitats determined by a clear understanding of the existing habitat value and potential of the location.
4.35. As per the aims of Policy BG/TC, it is certainly beneficial to increase tree and woodland cover from 7.4% to 19% by the 2050s, but care should also be taken in determining how/if this approach is consistent with maximising net biodiversity gains. For example, it is known that peat bog, bramble scrub and lowland meadows have a greater value in biodiversity than blanket tree cover. A mosaic of habitat creation is therefore preferred over blanket tree cover with the range of habitats determined by a clear understanding of the existing habitat value and potential of the location.