Development proposals shall provide for the protection of biodiversity and the mitigation or compensation of any adverse impacts. Additionally, enhancement of biodiversity should be included in all proposals, commensurate with the scale of the development. For example, such enhancement could include watercourse improvements to benefit biodiversity and improve water quality, habitat creation, wildlife links (including as part of green or blue infrastructure) and building design which creates wildlife habitat (e.g. green roofs, bird or bat boxes as integral parts of buildings in partnership with organisations such as The Swift Conservation Group and Essex Wildlife Trust).

Previously developed land (brownfield sites) can harbour biodiversity. The reuse of such sites must be undertaken carefully with regard to existing features of biodiversity interest. Development proposals on such sites will be expected to include measures that maintain and enhance important features and appropriately incorporate them within any development of the site.

If significant harm resulting from a development cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts), adequately mitigated, or as a last resort, compensated for, then planning permission should be refused.

For more information, please visit Braintree District Council’s Local Plan here.