Issues and options

This section is built around the principles of sustainability set out in the National Planning Policy Framework and in our strategic policies from the current Local Plan. The council has derived a vision of what the Local Plan should achieve for the Borough, and a set of objectives for making this happen.

Take a look at this video outlining the importance of considering the environment and sustainability:

This section outlines policies, strategies, and objectives to promote the protection and enhancement of the local environment while fostering sustainable development.

Climate change mitigation and adaptation:

• Set out policies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address the impacts of climate change.
• Encourage adaptation strategies to enhance resilience to changing climatic conditions.

Renewable energy and energy efficiency:

• Promote the use of renewable energy sources in new developments.
• Encourage energy-efficient design and construction practices.

Biodiversity and habitat protection:

• Establish policies to protect and enhance biodiversity.
• Identify and safeguard important habitats, green corridors, and wildlife corridors.

Sustainable transportation:

• Encourage the use of sustainable transportation options, such as cycling, walking, and public transit.
• Address the impact of transportation on air quality and noise levels.

Waste reduction and recycling:

• Set targets for reducing waste generation.
• Promote recycling and waste reduction measures in residential and commercial developments.

Sustainable water management:

• Implement policies to manage water resources sustainably.
• Promote water conservation measures in new developments.

Green infrastructure:

• Encourage the integration of green spaces, parks, and urban forests.
• Advocate for the use of sustainable urban drainage systems (SuDS) to manage water runoff.

Air quality management:

• Address the impact of development on local air quality.
• Implement measures to reduce air pollution and ensure compliance with air quality standards.

Circular economy principles:

• Promote the principles of a circular economy, including resource efficiency and waste reduction.
• Encourage the reuse and recycling of materials.

Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA):

• Require developers to conduct EIAs for major projects to assess their environmental impact.
• Evaluate potential impacts on ecosystems, water resources, air quality, and other environmental factors.

Heritage preservation and landscape protection:

• Consider the impact of development on local cultural and heritage assets.
• Implement measures to protect and preserve landscapes of environmental and cultural importance.

Sustainable construction practices:

• Encourage environmentally friendly construction methods and materials.
• Promote the use of sustainable and low-carbon construction practices.

Community resilience:

• Develop policies to enhance community resilience to environmental challenges.
• Address issues such as flood risk, extreme weather events, and other environmental hazards.

Environmental justice:

• Consider the potential disproportionate environmental impacts on different communities.
• Ensure that environmental benefits and burdens are distributed fairly.

Monitoring and reporting:

• Establish mechanisms for ongoing environmental monitoring.
• Implement reporting systems to track progress in achieving environmental and sustainability goals.