Why is the LBAP relevant to planning?

Carl SimmsSenior Environmental PlannerNorthamptonshire County Council

Natural Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006 - raise the profile of biodiversity

“Every public authority must, in exercising its functions, have regard, so far as is consistent with the proper exercise of those functions, to the purpose of conserving biodiversity”

NERC Duty

www.defra.gov.uk/environment/quality/biodiversity/key-docs.htm#la

• RSS – include targets for restoration of priority habitats

• LDF – be consistent with local biodiversity priorities and objectives (the LBAP)

• Conserve habitats and species

• Identify areas for restoration and enhancement

PPS 9• Plans and strategies should be based on

accurate up to date biodiversity information• This includes using the LBAP as a basis for

strategic decisions • Properly considering the impacts of

biodiversity in DC decisions• Importance of developing networks • Soon to be reviewed and integrated with policy

on open space and green infrastructure

• New PPS on Ecotowns• A glimpse of the

future?• All development

delivering a net gain

• Policy not in doubt• Same as all other policies you have to

abide by • Not enough to just reference it• BAP makes it easier to do that job