Policy information sourced from the Dartford Development Policies Plan
DP25: Nature Conservation and Enhancement
Development on the hierarchy of designated sites, featuring nationally recognised and locally protected sites, shown on the Policies Map will not be permitted. Development located within close proximity to designated sites, or with likely effects on them, should demonstrate that the proposal will not adversely impact on the features of the site that define its value or ecological pathways to the site.
Proposals should seek to avoid any significant adverse impact on existing biodiversity features. Any potential loss or adverse impact must be mitigated, including with reference to the following guidance points:
- Where mitigation measures require relocation of protected species this will only be acceptable when accompanied by clear evidence that the proposed method is appropriate and will provide for successful translocation.
- Proposals should include provision for protection during construction, and mechanisms for on-going management and monitoring.
Developments will be expected to preserve and, wherever possible, enhance existing habitats and ecological quality, including those of water bodies, particularly where located in Biodiversity Opportunity Areas. Particular regard should be had to points a) and b) below. Development proposals where the primary purpose is to enhance biodiversity will normally be permitted where:
- New biodiversity areas make use of native and local species as set out in the Kent Biodiversity Strategy and consider ecological links and adaptability to the effects of climate change
- Biodiversity features strengthen existing green and ecological corridors; and contribute to the creation and enhancement of the Green Grid.
Large residential development and North Kent European Protected Sites
Large residential developments located within 10km from the North Kent European Protected sites that are located outside the Borough will be required to undertake a Habitats Regulation Assessment to demonstrate that the mitigation measures proposed are satisfactory to avoid potential adverse recreational effects to protected features. Information on mitigation options is available on the Council’s website.
Trees
In all development proposals existing trees should be retained wherever possible. If retention is demonstrated not to be feasible, replacement provision should be of an appropriate tree species and maturity and/ or canopy cover taking into account the tree that is being replaced and the location.
For more information please see the Development Policies Plan