FAQs

"Biodiversity Net Gain" is the aim to leave biodiversity in a better state after development, through habitat creation, restoration, protection and enhancement.

Developers are required to submit ecological information, such as habitat surveys, protected species surveys and Biodiversity management plans. 

These documents are then carefully analysed, along with further site visits. Sites that can benefit biodiversity can then be selected and designed to achieve the highest biodiversity net gain and help with planning decisions.

Protected species are safeguarded under specific wildlife legislations. Where protected species are identified, developers will be required to modify proposals, implement mitigation measures, obtain licences from the relevant authority or redesign their proposal based on whatever species has been found.

New habitats that can be expected include: 

• Native woodland planting
• Wildflower meadows
• Wetland creation
• Sustainable drainage features
• Rain gardens
• Pollinator friendly planting pathways
• Wildlife corridors
• Wildlife towers
• Bird and bat boxes

To raise any concerns regarding biodiversity, comments made through other channels can help inform discussion and improve understanding, but only formal representations can be considered through the statutory examination process.

Comments made through social media, petitions, informal conversations, public drop in events or other engagement activities help the Council understand community views and answer questions. However, they do not form part of the formal consultation record. 

To ensure your views are considered during the next stages of preparing the Plan, you should submit a formal representation using the consultation process explained on the consultation website.