NPPF paragraphs 174 - 188 outline how planning policy and decisions should contribute to and enhance the natural environment where possible.
The Environment Act 2021 introduced new mandatory requirements for provision of biodiversity net gain and outlines the requirement for developments to provide a minimum of 10% net gain, it is expected that this will apply to all developments from 2023 pending secondary regulations coming into force.
This policy outlines the approach to be taken to biodiversity and geodiversity impacts from development. It is proposed the development will be required to achieve a minimum of 20% biodiversity net gain and notes that net gain calculations should be submitted using Defra Biodiversity Metric 3.0 or its successor. The policy notes that onsite provision of biodiversity net gain will be sought were possible but that off-site habitat measures will also be considered where appropriate and where consistent with strategic aims of the Plan as set out in Policy BG/GI. In these circumstances the Council’s proposed policy approach should be amended to reflect that the LPA will work proactively, positively, and collaboratively with landowners and relevant bodies to bring off-site enhancement measures forward in line with the delivery of development to ensure that the benefit to the community is clearly delivered.
The site proposal at Comberton includes measures to provide net biodiversity gain on site through the enhancement of existing landscape features on site and the provision of green open spaces throughout the site. The majority of the site is currently characterised as open farmland which are defined by hedgerow boundaries. Located to the west of the site is an area of woodland and a ditch runs along the south-west boundary. To the north of the site lies open countryside. There are therefore a number of opportunities available to provide biodiversity net gain measures on this site. Existing hedgerows which border the site would be retained and enhanced to strengthen the green edges of the site, new tree planting will be incorporated into a green corridor and will form part of the boundary treatment to screen the development from the wider countryside. It is also proposed that the swales and drainage basin which would be provided as part of the Sustainable Drainage System (SuDS) within the site would enhance the existing watercourse within the site and provide functional landscape features to improve the ecological and environmental benefits for local wildlife.
The allocation of the site at Comberton would allow for both the creation and connection of green spaces. The creation of both new green and blue corridors, green open spaces within the site and enhancement of the boundary features will improve the biodiversity value of the site.