I. The most important area for biodiversity is along the route of the River Flit and the River Ivel Navigation Canal. Development should conserve and enhance biodiversity and seek to deliver net biodiversity gains of a minimum of 10% (as quantified by the most recent Defra Biodiversity Impact Calculator). Biodiversity mitigation or compensation, where necessary, can be situated onsite or offsite. Offsite compensation should be located within the Neighbourhood Plan area.

II. Any scheme adjacent to the River Flit or the River Ivel Navigation Canal should be designed with a naturalised buffer zone of at least 10 metres from the top of the bank to protect and enhance the conservation value of the watercourse and ensure access for flood defence and maintenance.

III.All new buildings bordering open space or beneficial habitat should incorporate integrated bat and bird boxes and hedgehog friendly fencing, in accordance with the Clifton Green Infrastructure Plan.

IV.Proposals to create new natural areas and wildlife habitats, or to expand or enhance existing provision, will be supported.

V. Existing hedgerows within the village and on the edges of the village should be preserved and maintained. New hedgerow planting will be encouraged and where appropriate funding will be made available. Destruction of hedgerows will be resisted.

For more information, please visit the Clifton Neighbourhood Plan