Decision - Nature Conservation and Development Supplementary Planning Document

(1)         That the Cabinet Member notes the results of the public consultation exercise and endorses the changes made to the Nature Conservation and Development SPD.

(2)         That the Nature Conservation and Development SPD be adopted as part of the Local Development Framework, subject to any minor grammatical and non-material text and illustrative alterations agreed by the Director of Environment in  consultation with the Cabinet Member for Environment.

(3)         That the Nature Conservation and Development SPD takes effect on 1 April 2010.

To make members aware of the representations made on the SPD and officers recommended responses.

To ensure there is detailed, up to date, clear and locally relevant advice to all those with an interest in the development process on the integration of biodiversity into development.

To improve the biodiversity value of development in Brighton & Hove and make sure all developments adequately address national planning guidance on biodiversity.

To enable the local planning authority to prepare for implementation of the SPD and local planning applicants/agents to familiarise themselves with its contents.

As part as the SPD development process, alternative options were discussed with stakeholders at the early consultation phase. The Sustainability Appraisal tested the possibility of ‘doing nothing’ and looked at other options for delivery.