Decision Maker: Cabinet

Outcome: Recommendations Approved

Is Key Decision?: Yes

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: January 29, 2025

Purpose:

Content: RESOLVED   That the adoption and publication of the definition of ‘significant on-site’ BNG, be approved.   REASON   Introducing a definition will balance officer and resource capacity and cost burdens to applicants, with securing benefits to biodiversity within the district.   ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS CONSIDERED BUT REJECTED AS IDENTIFIED IN THE REPORT   The option of not producing a definition for Significant On-site BNG was considered. However, given the current government guidance examples, this would capture all planning applications which will put pressure on currently stretched officer capacity and resourcing across multiple departments, and inflict undue costs to applicants. Providing an in-house definition will strike a balance with council resourcing, cost burdens on applicants, and benefits to biodiversity.