Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area

The Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area (SPA) is a network of heathland sites, which are designated for their ability to provide a habitat for the internationally important bird species of woodlark, nightjar and Dartford warbler. This area is protected by the Habitats Directive (EC Directive 92/43/EEC on the Conservation of Natural and Semi-Natural Habitats and of Wild Fauna and Flora) and the Habitats Regulations (The Conservation (Natural Habitats &c.) Regulations 1994). Under these Regulations Bracknell Forest Borough Council has a duty to assess whether there is a risk of any plan or proposal having a significant impact on the integrity of the SPA.

The Council has formed the view, after receiving advice from Natural England (the government agency responsible for the promotion of wildlife), that there is a risk that any proposal for residential development of at least one net additional dwelling within 5km of the SPA boundary is likely to have a significant effect. A large proportion of Bracknell Forest Borough lies within 5km of the Thames Basin Heaths Special Protection Area. A map of this area can be downloaded from the ‘Downloads’ section to the right-hand side of this page. A particular concern raised by Natural England is that new housing development may have an adverse effect on the SPA; for example an increase in recreational activity and dog walking may disturb the ground-nesting birds or there could be predation by cats from new houses sited close to the SPA.

The information required by the applicant to allow the Council to carry out the Appropriate Assessment, including a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs), is available to download on the right-hand side of this page.