BASE HEADER

No

ID sylw: 107924

Derbyniwyd: 07/03/2025

Ymatebydd: Catesby Estates Ltd

Asiant : Stantec

Draft Policy Direction 39 states:
“We will aim to have a policy that requires development to contribute positively to the natural environment by providing measurable net improvements in biodiversity and ecosystem services. The initial focus will be on BNG and carbon sequestration, but the policy will be updated to incorporate other ecosystem services as a comprehensive ENG framework is developed.”
The supporting text to this policy confirms that the intention is that this policy look at all ecosystem services, beyond just biodiversity, including air quality, water quality, climate resilience and carbon sequestration, and will look to address these in tandem to ensure an overall net gain in ecosystem services.
Whilst this approach is commendable, it is difficult to foresee how such a policy will be formulated to deliver measurable outcomes. The evidence base for the SWLP must also include a thorough assessment of the viability of this policy to ensure that it does not unduly stifle
development.