Thank you for your consultation on the above document which was received by Natural England on 09 March 2015.
Natural England is a non-departmental public body. Our statutory purpose is to ensure that the natural environment is conserved, enhanced, and managed for the benefit of present and future generations, thereby contributing to sustainable development.
Natural England generally welcomes the Neighbourhood Plan and considers that it provides a useful framework for achieving the sustainable development of.
We have reviewed the Plan (submission publication) and we are pleased to note that our comments on the draft document have been taken on board. Natural England consider that our interest in the natural environment is well covered within the Plan. We particularly support the policies encouraging; protection and enhancement of biodiversity - including local biodiversity action plan (BAP) and landscape, protection of the best and most versatile (BMV) agricultural land, retaining woodland and trees, protection and enhancement of local green spaces and provision of community spaces such as allotments, gardens and playing fields for children. We also support encouraging people to use more sustainable methods of transport and having access to enjoy countryside and green spaces by walking and cycling.
We would be happy to comment further should the need arise but if in the meantime you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact us.