Purpose

To make a decision to accept or decline the recommendation by
Greater Manchester Ecology unit to designate an area of species
rich grassland within Bowlee Community Park a site of Biological
Interest

Content

The Township Committee considered a report of the Director of
Economy and Place which advised that Sites of Biological Importance
(SBI’s) are local planning designations in Greater Manchester
that highlight areas of nature conservation importance, containing
valuable habitats, plants, and animals.
 
Although they lack statutory protection like Sites of Special
Scientific Interest (SSSIs), they are considered in planning
applications affecting these areas.
 
The Greater Manchester Ecology Unit (GMEU) annually recommends
new
SBIs (if applicable) and changes to existing ones, which are
reported to the
relevant Township(s) for adoption for planning purposes.
 
The latest review undertaken by GMEU has recommended that a new
SBI be
designated at Bowlee Community Park.
 
In considering the report, the following matters were
raised:
·        
Could more protection be afforded to certain sites, to which
members were advised that there was a criteria in place, to
designate sites, but this may be something that could be looked at
further as part of local plan reviews:
·        
Wince Brook – could this be considered as an SBI as the
nature of the area had changed during the past few years;
·        
In relation to bio diversity net gain, the Local Nature Recovery
Strategy maps could be viewed on the Greater Manchester Combined
Authority website.
 
Resolved:
 
That the new SBI at Bowlee Community Park as detailed within the
report be approved, so that the nature conservation interest of the
area can be taken into account when planning applications are being
considered.
 
Reasons for the decision:
 
According to the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF),
planning decisions should enhance the natural and local environment
by protecting and enhancing valued biodiversity sites. The areas
identified by experts as having local biodiversity value should be
protected in planning decisions.
 
Alternatives Considered:
 
Not supporting the proposed SBI designation would leave this key
habitat vulnerable to loss and damage.