Policy information sourced from the Knightsbridge Neighbourhood Plan
KBR10: URBAN GREENING
A: In order to enhance the environment and biodiversity, proposals for new development or the replacement of existing development should incorporate sustainable planting where practical and viable and provided that it is in keeping with the character of the local area. This includes landscaping, tree and shrub planting, the creation of multi-functional roof gardens and the use of ‘green walls’.
B: Design of green infrastructure on roofs or walls will be considered to enhance biodiversity where it is shown to create new links to facilitate the movement or dispersal of wildlife, provide additional habitats for rare, protected or otherwise important species or replicate natural habitat conditions.
C: In order to ensure that these green assets are technically feasible and commercially viable and can thrive over the long term, development proposals are encouraged to:
- provide the maximum practicable coverage;
- include a clear planting plan demonstrating resilience to disease, pests and climate change that is consistent with the principles of Policy KBR38 (Trees);
- include a watering system, particularly where this utilises rainwater harvesting techniques to minimise mains water usage;
- comply with all relevant structural design requirements;
- incorporate a contingency strategy for failure to ensure that the fabric of the building is not damaged if the planting fails or is not properly maintained; and
- be designed to ensure low maintenance effort and cost and, where possible, be visible in whole or part from the public realm to capture associated well-being benefits.
D: Use of synthetic materials to provide a visually equivalent finish will be resisted e.g. plastic greenery.
For more information please see the Neighbourhood Plan