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ID sylw: 100745

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Gladman Developments

Gladman support the aim of a minimum of 10% BNG over the pre-development site value, measured by the DEFRA Statutory Biodiversity Metric, in alignment with the Environment Act 2021.

However, Gladman do not consider it sound for the Council to explore the idea of seeking a higher percentage of BNG above the statutory 10% on new development proposals. Paragraph 006 of the PPG is clear that requirements beyond 10% BNG must be clearly justified, and evidence demonstrating the implications of a higher BNG percentage must be provided. The SWLP should provide certainty for developers with a fixed figure. The wording of criteria two doesn't reflect national policy which does not give the option of seeking less than 10% BNG.

Higher requirements would likely require extensive areas of land to be removed from the potential developable area and inefficient use of land. The provision of BNG can be incredibly costly and impact site viability as a result. 10% BNG ensures developments leave more biodiversity than previously the case and is not overly burdensome on developers. BNG must not prevent, delay or reduce housing delivery as this will hamper provision of much-needed housing (including affordable housing) and other social/community facilities required.