Biodiversity and Green Infrastructure Supplementary Planning Document

The Biodiversity and Green Infrastructure Supplementary Planning Document (SPD) provides detailed guidance on the implementation of the following policies in the Local Plan:

• LP 30 (green Infrastructure)
• LP 31 (designated nature conservation and geological sites)
• LP 53 (biodiversity)

These policies require:

• the borough’s green infrastructure to be protected and enhanced
• designated nature conservation or geological sites to be safeguarded and enhanced
• developments to:
  • achieve a minimum of 10% net gain for biodiversity
  • meet broader biodiversity requirements such as protecting, enhancing and avoiding fragmentation of habitats
  • address adverse impacts of development on biodiversity

The SPD was adopted by council at the 23 June 2026 Cabinet meeting. Following adoption, the SPD is a material consideration in the determination of planning applications.

Adopted SPD and supporting documents