B2.2.1 Integrating with existing green and blue networks

New development must be guided by a thorough understanding of how water, wildlife, people, and natural systems move across the site and its surroundings. This understanding must take reference from the Site Appraisal Assessment (C1.1 and G1.1 where applicable) and the Local Character and Context Assessment (C1.2 and G1.2 where applicable).

Applications must show how this analysis has influenced the design by including a Green Infrastructure (GI) network plan, either within the Design and Access Statement (DAS) or as a separate document. The GI plan must:

• illustrate how the development connects to and enhances the wider green infrastructure network and key movement routes

• identify and map existing features such as trees, hedgerows, waterbodies, wildlife corridors, nearby open spaces, existing and proposed street furniture (for example benches, bins and directional signage) and connections to local public foot and cycle paths

• demonstrate the intended purpose(s) or use(s) of proposed GI elements within the site, including the size of each element. Uses include open space, play, sports, biodiversity, and Sustainable urban Drainage Systems (SuDS). Identifying where spaces are designed to deliver multiple benefits (for example spaces which combine SuDS and biodiversity enhancements)

Exception: Minor applications do not need to provide a separate GI plan and can instead include the relevant details within the proposed Landscape Strategy.

Where required, design proposals must incorporate site specific mitigation measures using a hierarchical system to address any unavoidable impacts on biodiversity resources, including:

1. loss or degradation of sites, habitats, and species

2. fragmentation of habitats, sites, or species populations

3. disruption of connectivity or barriers to species movement

4. disturbance or damage from emissions, noise, visual impacts, or pollution

5. alteration of ecological support systems

6. climate change impacts