Policy information sourced from the Grove Park Neighbourhood Plan

GI1 Grove Park’s Green Spaces

  1. Grove Park’s Green Spaces identified in table 14 shall be protected in accordance with national policies and the development Plan, specifically Lewisham Core Strategy Policy 12 (or any replacement policy) and enhanced where possible.
    These spaces should not be built on unless:
    1. an assessment has been undertaken which has clearly shown the open space, buildings or land to be surplus to requirements; or
    2. the loss resulting from the proposed development would be replaced by equivalent or better provision in terms of quantity and quality in a suitable location; or
    3. the development is for alternative sports and recreational provision, the benefits of which clearly outweigh the loss of the current or former use.”
  2. Development proposals affecting sites identified as having wildlife and biodiversity importance should:
    1. Be in conformity with national policy and the Development Plan and:
    2. Deliver compensation that is ecologically equivalent or enhanced in type, amount and condition of the habitat being lost insitu or within the same neighbourhood area to ensure no net loss across the neighbourhood.
    3. Demonstrate how biodiversity net-gain and connected ecological networks are being achieved in situ or local to the development through the creation or enhancement of existing or new wildlife habitats.
  3. If significant harm to biodiversity resulting from the development cannot be avoided (through locating on an alternative site with less harmful impacts), adequately mitigated, or, as a last resort, compensated for, an application will be refused.
  4. Where development has to unavoidably remove tree canopy cover, replacement trees should be provided preferably on a three to one ratio and should include a species that is of equal merit and maturity, or one that delivers enhanced habitat or, environmental benefits. All new tree planting should have an adequate root protection area to prevent future conflict with utility services and households.
  5. Sites of Importance for Nature Conservation (Sydenham Cottages, Grove Park Nature Reserve, Burnt Ash Nature Reserve) are Tranquil Spaces / Quiet Areas; development in the vicinity which would result in increased noise levels, adversely impacting these spaces will be resisted.

Policy GI1a Local Green Space Designation

  1. Natural Parkland Nature Trail (North Side)
  2. Sydenham Cottages
  3. Marvels Adventure Play/Sports Ground
  4. Ringway Gardens

Inappropriate development will only be acceptable in very special circumstances.

For more information and policy context please see the Grove Park Neighbourhood Plan