Decision Maker: Babergh Cabinet

Outcome:

Is Key Decision?: No

Is Callable In?: Yes

Date of Decision: March 11, 2025

Purpose: To approve the ‘Island Site’ in the middle of the River Gipping at Sproughton be formally designated as a Local Nature Reserve.

Content: It was RESOLVED: - 1.1         That, Cabinet accepted the recommendation (Option B), to approve the designation of the green infrastructure areas and island (Graphic 1) at Sproughton Enterprise Park, as a Local Nature Reserve (LNR).   1.2         That, delegated authority was given to the Director of Operations and Climate Change, in consultation with the Cabinet Member for Climate Change, Biodiversity and Nature Recovery, to conclude the necessary documentation for the Declaration as soon as practically possible. REASON FOR DECISION By formally recognising the green infrastructure areas and island at Sproughton Enterprise Park as a Local Nature Reserve, the council can protect the wildlife and public value of the site ensuring low cost and a sustainable future. Alternative Options Considered and Rejected: Option A – do nothing. The green infrastructure areas and island at Sproughton Enterprise Park, could continue to be managed through the Landscape and Ecological Management Plan (LEMP). This option is not believed to be sustainable and could be at the detriment to the long term retention of the site.   Any Declarations of Interests Declared: None Any Dispensation Granted: None